Suspected pina colada poisoning leaves tourists in Fiji ill
Seven individuals, including five tourists, were hospitalized in Fiji following suspected poisoning linked to pina coladas consumed at a luxury resort bar, according to local authorities. The incident occurred at the Warwick Fiji resort on the Coral Coast, sparking concern across the island nation known for its idyllic tropical getaways.
The affected individuals include a U.S. citizen and four Australians, aged between 18 and 56, as well as two expatriates residing in Fiji. Shortly after consuming the rum-based cocktails, the group exhibited symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and neurological distress. Initial treatment was provided at Sigatoka Hospital before they were transferred to Lautoka Hospital for further care.
Health authorities confirmed on Monday that the condition of those affected has improved significantly, with some patients expected to be discharged soon. Earlier reports had suggested that a few individuals were in serious condition.
Fiji’s Health Ministry has launched an investigation, and no additional cases have been reported so far. The resort maintains that it adheres to stringent food and beverage safety standards, denying any practices such as ingredient substitution or quality compromises.
The Warwick Fiji hotel has assured the public of its full cooperation with authorities, emphasizing that it is treating the incident with utmost seriousness. The hotel stated that it is conducting a thorough investigation and is awaiting test results from health authorities to gather all necessary information.
Fiji Police are also involved in the inquiry to determine the precise cause of the incident.
The incident has been compared to a recent tragedy in Laos, where six tourists lost their lives due to suspected methanol poisoning. However, Fiji’s tourism chief Brent Hill highlighted that the situation in Fiji is significantly different, emphasizing the isolated nature of the event.
Tourism Minister Viliame Gavok reinforced this view, describing the case as extremely rare and assuring visitors that Fiji continues to uphold high safety standards within its thriving tourism industry.
Sydney resident David Sandoe shared that his daughter Tanya and granddaughter Georgia were among those affected by the suspected poisoning in Fiji. He recounted the distress of receiving a late-night call about their hospitalization but expressed relief that both were recovering well and preparing to return home. During the ordeal, Georgia reportedly suffered a seizure.
Two Australian families impacted by the incident are receiving consular assistance, according to Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). In response, DFAT has issued a travel advisory, cautioning tourists to remain vigilant about the risks of drink spiking and methanol poisoning.
The advisory emphasizes the importance of seeking urgent medical attention if such incidents are suspected. The incident has prompted heightened awareness among travelers but has not dampened efforts to ensure safety for visitors to Fiji. Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the poisoning.
Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has advised tourists visiting Fiji to stay alert to potential risks associated with consuming alcoholic drinks and to seek immediate medical attention if they suspect drink spiking. Meanwhile, New Zealand officials confirmed that no consular assistance requests have been received in connection with the incident.
The incident has prompted heightened awareness among travelers but has not deterred Fiji’s commitment to ensuring the safety of its guests. As investigations continue, the focus remains on uncovering the cause and preventing similar occurrences in the future.