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Seven foreign tourists have been hospitalized in Fiji after experiencing severe illness during their stay at a resort, sparking concerns and an ongoing investigation. The incident occurred at the Warwick Resort near Sigatoka, where the group, consisting of Australian nationals and an American, reported symptoms including nausea, vomiting, and neurological issues.
Fijian authorities confirmed the development on Monday, noting that the cause of the illness remains unidentified. Tourism Minister Viliame R Gavoka stated that all affected individuals are in stable condition, with some already cleared for discharge. Among them are the daughter and granddaughter of Australian David Sandoe, who shared that they had been released from medical care.
While speculation has pointed to alcohol poisoning as a potential cause, authorities have refrained from drawing conclusions until toxicology reports are finalized. Similar incidents involving tainted alcohol have been reported in other regions, such as Laos, raising concerns over beverage safety.
The Warwick Resort has denied any compromise in the quality of its beverages and emphasized adherence to proper standards. “The safety and well-being of our guests remain our utmost priority, and we are cooperating fully with the authorities in their investigation,” the resort stated.
Australia’s Foreign Ministry has responded to the incident by updating its travel advisories, urging tourists to exercise caution when consuming alcoholic beverages abroad. Authorities in Fiji have also assured visitors that robust measures are in place to safeguard tourist safety and maintain high hospitality standards.
The investigation remains ongoing, with officials awaiting the results of toxicology tests to determine the exact cause of the illness. Meanwhile, the incident has underscored the importance of vigilance among travelers and resorts alike as Fiji continues to recover its tourism sector in the wake of the global pandemic.
Tourism remains a cornerstone of Fiji’s economy, and officials are working diligently to address concerns while reassuring travelers of the country’s commitment to safety and quality standards.
