7 Tourists Hospitalized in Fiji After Suspected Alcohol Poisoning at Warwick Resort
Seven tourists, including Australians, Americans, and Fijian residents, have been hospitalised for suspected alcohol poisoning from drinking cocktails at a resort in Fiji. The Local authorities investigate the incident.
Introduction:
Seven tourists have been treated at a hospital in Fiji for suspected alcohol poisoning after consuming cocktails at the Warwick Hotel & Resort Fiji located on the Coral Coast. Shortly after consuming drinks at its resort bar, the symptoms were dire for the four Australians, one American, and two foreign residents. Local health authorities are closely monitoring the situation amid ongoing investigations.
What Happened at the Warwick Hotel & Resort Fiji?
A group of seven foreigners, on Saturday evening, consumed cocktails at the Warwick Hotel & Resort Fiji, a five-star popular resort. Soon after, they developed severe symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and neurological issues. Authorities immediately acted and transferred the affected people to Sigatoka Hospital and then to Lautoka Hospital for further treatment.
Key details include:
- Victims: 4 Australians, 1 American, and 2 foreign residents of Fiji
- Symptoms: nausea, vomiting, and neurological distress
- Hospitalization: all affected individuals are now in a stable condition.
Authorities are Investigating the Cause of the Incident
Investigations by Fiji's health officials are looking into methanol poisoning as a concern after similar incidents in Southeast Asia, like the recent deaths in Laos due to suspected methanol poisoning. However, the Fiji tourism chief, Brent Hill, has said the situation in Fiji is not quite bad.
The Warwick Hotel & Resort Fiji has assured the public it is conducting a thorough investigation into the incident while awaiting the test results from the health authorities to determine the cause of the poisoning.
Tourism Concerns and Safety Warnings
The incident raises safety concerns about tourists' visits to Fiji. The DFAT issued warnings for tourists to take awareness of any possible danger against them, which includes alleged drinks spiking and methanol poisoning.
Safety Advice:
- Exercise care in consuming liquor at places other than regular ones.
- If you find yourself having dizziness or uneasiness resulting from drink consumption, reach hospital immediately.
Series of similar incidents at multiple places raise serious alarm
This incident comes after another tragedy occurred in Laos when six tourists died from suspected methanol poisoning. Australian Minister Jason Clare likened this incident to that of the tragedy in Laos. Officials have, however, verified that the situation in Fiji was different. The incident has created awareness about alcohol consumption while traveling in an unfamiliar region.
Conclusion: A Call for Vigilance During Travel
The suspected alcohol poisoning incident in Fiji should serve as a stark reminder to the potential dangers tourists may incur while traveling abroad. As the investigations unfold, tourists are recommended to show extra caution when drinking alcoholic beverages, especially in environments they are not familiar with.
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- Alcohol poisoning symptoms
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- Fiji tourism safety tips
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