A 25-year-old Chinese tourist has died following a suspected mass poisoning at the Clandestino Hostel in Canggu, Bali. Deqing Zhuoga was found without a pulse in her room on September 2, surrounded by vomit and wearing only an unbuttoned blue shirt. Around 20 other guests fell ill with symptoms including vomiting, diarrhoea, chills and shortness of breath.
Ten travellers were rushed to intensive care, including Ms Zhuoga's friend, Leila Li, who spent five days fighting for her life. Ms Li was diagnosed with pesticide poisoning and food poisoning while in hospital. The room next to theirs had been sealed off after being sprayed for bed bugs the day before.
Experts have suggested two possible causes: mass food poisoning from a communal dinner the evening before Ms Zhuoga's death, or poisoning from insecticide fumigation. Dr Dicky Budiman, a global health expert, said it could be a combination of both. He noted that insecticide poisoning could occur if fumigation was done incorrectly, such as in an area with guests or without adequate ventilation.
Dr Ryki Sihombing, an internal medicine specialist, said that based on symptoms alone it is difficult to determine the cause. He advised travellers who suspect poisoning to bring a sample of the suspected substance to hospital for testing. Pest control expert Yusri said that while he has never seen a death from bed bug fumigation, the use of unlicensed or homemade insecticides could pose risks.
Yusri emphasized that hotels must clear all guests and staff during fumigation and ventilate the area for several hours afterward. The incident has prompted warnings for Australian tourists about hostel safety and the potential dangers of improper pest control practices.
