Tropical Paradise or Health Risk? Guests at Fiji Resort Report Alarming Mystery Illnesses!

At a Fiji resort, other vacationers reported experiencing unexplained symptoms following the illness of four Australians. The situation has raised concerns among guests, prompting discussions about potential health risks at the destination.

P24 News Media

December 18, 2024

1 minute

Tropical Paradise or Health Risk? Guests at Fiji Resort Report Alarming Mystery Illnesses!

India

Recent events at a Fiji resort have raised serious concerns after four Australians, along with other guests, fell ill following the consumption of piña coladas. This troubling incident led to the hospitalization of seven tourists, highlighting potential health risks associated with the drinks served at the Warwick Fiji resort on the picturesque island.

Among the affected was Georgia Sandoe-Simpson, a 19-year-old who suffered a seizure after drinking what was reportedly a contaminated cocktail. Her mother, Tanya, aged 49, was also hospitalized for two nights. They returned to Sydney on Monday night, deeply shaken by the experience. The situation has sparked numerous complaints, with other guests sharing similar experiences of sudden illness after indulging in the same cocktails.

An individual who visited the resort two weeks ago recounted a disturbing experience where her husband fell ill with symptoms of chills and sweats after consuming a piña colada. The guest described the situation online, stating it was indeed "very strange." Another visitor who stayed at the resort in November expressed discontent, claiming the cocktails tasted overwhelmingly of alcohol and were "completely undrinkable." This echoes concerns raised by many who feel that the quality of drinks served does not meet acceptable standards.

Issues surrounding the general upkeep of the resort have also come to light, with some patrons noting that the swimming pool was plagued by algae growth and murky water. One disgruntled guest expressed their dissatisfaction, suggesting that the Warwick should not retain its star rating due to its rundown state and unclean facilities. Reviews on TripAdvisor have painted a picture of a resort that, while visually appealing from the outside, suffers from neglect and inadequate maintenance, including claims of "toxic" black mold found on bedding.

Despite the negative feedback, the resort has received its share of positive reviews, with several guests praising the service and hospitality. Some visitors have even declared it a destination they would gladly return to, with comments praising the cocktails. However, the recent health scares have undoubtedly cast a shadow over these positive experiences.

As investigations into the cause of the illnesses continue, toxicology reports are anticipated to reveal critical information. Authorities are exploring the possibility of methanol contamination, particularly due to similarities with a recent incident in Laos that resulted in fatalities from methanol-laced alcohol. However, Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister, Viliame Gavoka, has emphasized that only a handful of people fell ill despite many piña coladas being served that night.

Mr. Gavoka underscored the importance of identifying the root cause of the illnesses, noting the quick onset of symptoms among the holiday-makers compared to the delayed reaction typical of methanol poisoning. He confirmed that the toxicology results will be crucial in determining whether the cocktails were indeed responsible for the guests' ailments. The Deputy Prime Minister also clarified that while the resort served numerous piña coladas that evening, other bars within the same establishment did not report any health issues.

In light of these events, the Warwick resort has stated that they adhere to proper standards and do not engage in practices that would compromise the quality of their beverages. The sales and marketing manager, Savaira Molaucake, assured that they are treating this matter with utmost seriousness and are conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

As the investigation unfolds, many will be watching closely for the findings of the toxicology reports, hoping for clarity and assurance that future visits to the resort will not result in similar distressing experiences.