Seven foreign tourists fell ill in Fiji after consuming pina coladas at a luxury resort, leading to hospitalizations and health investigations. Local authorities reported that five of the affected individuals are tourists, with one from the United States and the others from Australia, ranging in age from 18 to 56. Additionally, two expatriates living in Fiji were also affected, according to health ministry sources.
Some guests initially exhibited severe symptoms, but health officials noted improvements, with plans for some to be discharged shortly. This incident follows the tragic poisoning of six tourists in Laos, suspected to be from methanol, raising alarm among tourism authorities.
Brent Hill, Fiji's tourism chief, acknowledged concern over the Laos incident but insisted the situation in Fiji was not directly comparable. Shortly after consuming their cocktails at the Warwick Fiji Resort located on the Coral Coast, guests reported nausea, vomiting, and neurological symptoms. They received initial treatment at Sigatoka Hospital before being transferred to Lautoka Hospital.
Fiji's tourism minister, Viliame Gavok, emphasized that this was an "extremely isolated incident," claiming the resort has maintained its commitment to quality in drink preparation. Local authorities have not seen any other similar cases arise, and initial investigations are already underway.
Sydney resident David Sandoe shared his family's distress after hearing about his daughter Tanya and granddaughter Georgia's illness, although he confirmed they were recovering. Reports from the Australian Broadcasting Corporation indicated that one 56-year-old Australian woman was under medical surveillance, and a 19-year-old also experienced severe health episodes.
The Warwick Fiji hotel confirmed awareness of the situation, describing it as "suspected alcohol poisoning," and committed to a thorough investigation pending health authority test results. Both Fiji police and tourist consulates are involved, offering support to affected families.
Amidst growing safety concerns, Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has issued warnings to tourists about potential drink spiking and methanol poisoning when consuming alcoholic beverages in Fiji. Tourists have been advised to seek immediate medical attention if they suspect such incidents.
