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LONDON — The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a critical travel warning for the Republic of Cabo Verde (Cape Verde) following a sharp rise in severe gastrointestinal infections among British tourists. The advisory comes after the tragic confirmation that four UK nationals have died after contracting bacterial infections while visiting the West African archipelago.
Since October 1, health officials have identified 118 cases of Shigella and 43 cases of Salmonella linked to travel to the islands. While these infections are often considered routine “traveller’s diarrhea,” the recent cluster has proven unusually severe. The deaths of four Britons—occurring within months of their return—have prompted authorities to urge “extreme vigilance” as the February half-term holiday approaches.
Understanding the Outbreak: Shigella and Salmonella
The spike in cases is primarily centered on the popular tourist hubs of Sal Island (specifically the Santa Maria resort area) and Boa Vista.
Both Shigella and Salmonella are highly contagious bacteria that invade the intestinal lining. While most healthy adults recover within five to seven days, the UKHSA warns that the risks are significantly higher for vulnerable populations.
“Most people will experience a self-limiting illness,” says Dr. Gauri Godbole, Deputy Director for Gastrointestinal Infections and Food Safety at UKHSA. “However, young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems are at a much higher risk of life-threatening complications, such as severe dehydration or sepsis.”
Key Symptoms to Watch For:
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Sudden, watery, or bloody diarrhea
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High fever and chills
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Severe abdominal cramping and bloating
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Nausea and vomiting
A Perfect Storm: Infrastructure and Hygiene Concerns
The surge in infections may be linked to a combination of environmental factors and resort-level hygiene failures.
In August 2024, Hurricane Erin caused significant damage to Cape Verde’s water and sanitation infrastructure. The World Health Organization (WHO) previously cautioned that compromised water systems and flooding increase the likelihood of cross-contamination between sewage and drinking water supplies.
Furthermore, legal representatives for the families of the deceased—Mark Ashley (55), Elena Walsh (64), Karen Pooley (64), and a 56-year-old man from Watford—have alleged poor sanitation standards at specific resorts.
Dr. Damien Tully, an infectious disease expert at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, notes that the “all-inclusive” model popular in Cape Verde can inadvertently facilitate outbreaks.
“Buffet-style catering is a high-risk environment for enteric (gut) diseases,” Dr. Tully explains. “Shared serving utensils, food held at improper temperatures, and high-density dining areas allow bacteria to spread rapidly from person to person if hygiene protocols lapse even slightly.”
Navigating Your Travel Plans: How to Stay Safe
The UKHSA is not currently advising against travel to Cape Verde but is urging tourists to adhere to strict “food and water hacks” to minimize risk.
1. The “Boil it, Cook it, Peel it, or Forget it” Rule
The safest foods are those served steaming hot. Avoid salads or raw vegetables, as these are often washed in local tap water which may be contaminated. Only eat fruit that you have peeled yourself.
2. Water Safety
Do not drink tap water. This includes using it for:
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Brushing your teeth
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Making ice cubes (always ask for drinks without ice)
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Mixing baby formula (use bottled water that has been boiled)
3. Rigorous Hand Hygiene
Shigella is notorious for its low infectious dose; it takes very few bacteria to make a person sick. Washing hands with soap and water after using the bathroom and before eating is the single most effective defense. If soap is unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content.
Public Health Implications and Legal Action
The four recent deaths bring the total number of British fatalities linked to Cape Verde travel to six since January 2023. This pattern has triggered personal injury claims against the package holiday operator Tui. While Tui has stated they are investigating the allegations, they have declined further comment due to ongoing legal proceedings.
Public health experts emphasize that these incidents serve as a reminder of the “global nature of infectious disease.” Travel medicine practitioners suggest that anyone returning from the region who experiences persistent or bloody diarrhea should contact their GP immediately and mention their travel history to ensure proper stool culture testing.
Reference Section
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals before making any health-related decisions or changes to your treatment plan. The information presented here is based on current research and expert opinions, which may evolve as new evidence emerges.
