Kapanlagi.com - The case of alcohol poisoning that has shaken Fiji has drawn the attention of the international community. Seven tourists, including four Australian citizens, experienced nausea, vomiting, and neurological symptoms after enjoying piña colada cocktails at the Warwick Fiji Resort, a five-star resort located on Coral Coast, on Saturday night (14/12) local time.
This incident has raised global concerns, especially considering a similar event that recently occurred in Laos, where two Australian tourists died from methanol poisoning. Although the symptoms experienced in Fiji appear similar, local authorities explained that this situation is different and is currently under investigation.
The governments of Fiji and Australia are now collaborating to uncover the cause of this incident. The victims have been treated at a nearby hospital, and the good news is that some of them are reported to have started recovering.
Here are some interesting facts surrounding this shocking incident in the international tourism world, summarized by Kapanlagi.com on Tuesday (17/12).
1. Alcohol Poisoning in Fiji Occurs After Tourists Drink Pina Colada
On what was supposed to be a relaxing Saturday night, seven tourists enjoying pina colada cocktails at the Warwick Fiji Resort found themselves caught in a terrifying situation. With the creamy and refreshing taste of a blend of white rum, coconut cream, and juice, the drink suddenly turned into a nightmare.
Four Australians, one American, and two expatriates living in Fiji experienced symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and severe neurological disturbances. In an emergency, they were quickly rushed to Sigatoka Hospital and then transferred to the larger Lautoka Hospital, adding to the tension at the luxury resort that usually promises high standards.
The police and Fiji's health authorities immediately intervened to investigate this shocking incident, while two Australian families relentlessly sought assurance regarding the safety of their members.
2. Several Victims Declared Improving
The symptoms experienced by the victims vary, ranging from nausea and vomiting to concerning seizures. Among them, a 19-year-old Australian woman experienced severe seizures, while a 56-year-old woman remains under close observation in the intensive care unit.
This case reminds the public of the recent methanol poisoning incident in Laos that shook the public. However, Fijian authorities emphasize that the symptoms presented are not directly related to methanol.
The good news is that some victims have started to recover, and some have returned to their home country. In this harrowing situation, David Sandoe from Sydney expressed how difficult it is to receive bad news late at night when his daughter informed him that they had been poisoned and had to be hospitalized, as reported by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC).
3. Response from the Resort and the Government of Fiji
Warwick Fiji Resort demonstrates a strong commitment to addressing the poisoning incident that occurred, by cooperating with authorities to uncover the exact cause. They affirm that the operational standards implemented are in accordance with international regulations, including in the serving of alcoholic beverages.
The Minister of Tourism of Fiji, Viliame Gavoka, emphasized that this incident is classified as an isolated case, explaining that pina colada was served at four different bars that night, but only guests from one bar experienced poisoning.
Currently, the Fijian government is focusing on investigating the drink samples consumed by the victims to look for the possibility of harmful substances in the cocktails.
4. Concerns and Comparison with the Incident in Laos
This recent case serves as a reminder to tourists, especially from Australia, of the tragic incident that occurred a few weeks ago in Laos, where two Australian tourists lost their lives after consuming a toxic drink suspected to contain methanol.
Although Fijian authorities have not found evidence of methanol in the pina colada consumed, they still issued a warning to encourage tourists to be more cautious when enjoying drinks abroad.
As a precautionary measure, the Australian government has updated its travel advice for Fiji, urging its citizens to remain vigilant about the risks of alcohol poisoning and to seek medical help immediately if they experience any suspicious symptoms.
5. Preventive Measures for Travelers
This shocking incident serves as a valuable lesson for travelers to be more cautious when choosing drinks while on vacation. The threat of alcohol poisoning, especially caused by harmful substances like methanol, remains a lurking danger in various tourist locations.
Experts recommend that we only enjoy drinks from trusted sources and avoid suspicious ones. If experiencing symptoms such as nausea or neurological disturbances, seek medical assistance immediately.
Additionally, it is important to read official travel advice from the government before departure, including health and safety guidelines. Fiji's Minister of Tourism, Viliame Gavoka, emphasizes that although this incident is concerning, every operation in Fiji adheres to international standards, and the majority of visitors continue to enjoy an exceptional experience with the high-quality food and drinks offered.
6. What caused the poisoning that affected seven tourists in Fiji?
Seven tourists in Fiji experienced a mysterious poisoning that is under investigation, with initial suspicions pointing to the piña colada cocktail they enjoyed. Although the exact cause remains a puzzle, the mix of certain ingredients in the tropical drink seems to be the main focus of this case.
7. Is this a case of methanol poisoning like in Laos?
So far, there has been no official statement regarding the presence of methanol in the drinks. Fiji authorities are still eagerly awaiting the results of toxicology tests that will provide certainty on this issue.
8. What precautions should travelers take to avoid alcohol poisoning?
Make sure you only enjoy drinks from trusted sources and be wary of anything suspicious! If you suddenly feel unusual symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical help immediately. Your health is the top priority!
(kpl/srr)
Disclaimer: This translation from Bahasa Indonesia to English has been generated by Artificial Intelligence.