Seven individuals, including an American tourist and two foreign residents of Fiji, have reportedly fallen ill after consuming cocktails at a resort. Among them, four Australians are in critical condition due to suspected alcohol poisoning.
According to reports, a 56-year-old Australian woman is under constant monitoring in the hospital, while a 19-year-old is facing serious medical challenges. Two other Australian women, aged 49 and 18, are also in critical condition, although they are not as severely affected.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade has been contacted regarding the involvement of any New Zealand nationals. Fiji journalist Mereoni Mili mentioned that health ministry inspectors and local police are currently investigating the incident, though the specific cause of illness remains unclear. It has been confirmed that all consumption occurred at the bar within the resort.
The critical patients are receiving treatment at Lautoka Hospital, situated approximately three and a half hours from the Warwick Resort on the Coral Coast. Authorities are paying close attention to this situation, given the potential implications for Fiji’s tourism sector, which is vital to the local economy. Mili noted that stakeholders in the tourism industry will likely implement precautionary measures to prevent further incidents.
This incident follows a recent case of methanol poisoning in Laos, which resulted in the deaths of several tourists, including Australians, highlighting ongoing concerns about alcohol safety in popular travel destinations.
In light of this unfortunate event, it’s vital for both tourists and local authorities to remain vigilant regarding the quality and safety of food and beverages served at establishments. It is hoped that swift actions will be taken to ensure the well-being of others and maintain the integrity of Fiji’s tourism reputation.
In summary, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety standards in the hospitality industry, and proactive measures could enhance traveler confidence moving forward.
Leave a comment