The Minister for Tourism, Viliame Gavoka, has addressed a serious incident where seven women were hospitalized after consuming a cocktail at the Warwick Fiji resort. During a press conference, Mr. Gavoka expressed his concern and sent his thoughts to the affected guests and their families, stating that the women were receiving excellent medical care. He noted that their conditions were stable and that he hopes they continue to recover.
Investigations by the health team are ongoing, but so far, no other cases have emerged, and the incident is seen as an isolated one. “This is an extremely isolated incident, affecting only these seven guests at a specific bar within the Resort,” he emphasized. The minister reassured the public that the resort has a long-standing, positive reputation and that management has confirmed there were no questionable practices regarding drink preparation.
The government has also sought to reassure both local and international tourists that such incidents are rare. “Thousands of tourists are currently enjoying safe experiences in Fiji, with nearly a million visitors annually,” Gavoka said, asserting that only one incident of this nature has been reported in recent memory.
As the festive season approaches, he advised tourists to be cautious about their consumption and emphasized the importance of monitoring the situation. In light of the incident, Australian travel advisories reiterated the need to take normal safety precautions and remain alert to potential risks associated with drink spiking and methanol poisoning.
This incident highlights the importance of safety in tourism and the swift response from authorities to ensure guest well-being. The proactive measures put in place by the Fijian government reaffirm their commitment to maintaining a safe environment for both residents and visitors, encouraging a continued positive tourism experience in Fiji.
In summary, while the situation has caused concern, the government’s prompt action and reassurances serve to remind travelers that Fiji remains a popular and safe tourist destination for many.
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