Deadly Stomach Bug Hits Cape Verde: Four Britons Die, Hundreds Ill

Deadly Stomach Bug Hits Cape Verde Four Britons Die Hundreds Ill

Deadly Stomach Bug Hits Cape Verde: Four Britons Die, Hundreds Ill

A serious health alert is unfolding for travelers to Cape Verde, after a series of stomach infections have tragically claimed the lives of four British tourists. These deaths are part of a wider pattern that has seen more than 1,500 people fall ill after visiting the islands. The illnesses, linked to bacterial infections including shigella and salmonella, have raised urgent concerns about hygiene standards at some resorts, particularly on Sal and Boa Vista islands.

The cases have prompted families to take legal action, with claims being filed against Tui, the holiday provider. Victims included Mark Ashley, Elena Walsh, Karen Pooley and an unnamed man in his 50s, all of whom died after returning from Cape Verde. Their symptoms included severe diarrhoea, vomiting, fever and in some cases, complications like sepsis or multi-organ failure. For many, underlying health conditions, age, or immune vulnerability made the infections far more dangerous.

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Experts stress that shigella and salmonella are typically spread through contaminated food, water, or surfaces. While many travelers recover within a week, these bacteria can be deadly for older adults, young children, or anyone with existing health issues. Outbreaks are often associated with buffet-style dining or large hospitality settings, where food and water hygiene are critical.

Recent natural events have compounded the risk. Cape Verde was hit by Hurricane Erin last August, which damaged water and sanitation systems. The World Health Organization has flagged that this could increase the likelihood of bacterial contamination, making preventive measures more crucial than ever. The UK Health Security Agency advises visitors to eat freshly cooked food, drink bottled or boiled water, avoid raw salads and maintain strict hand hygiene.

The scale of the problem has shocked both the public and legal authorities. Lawyers representing affected families describe the number of serious illnesses as “truly staggering” and unprecedented for resorts in the region. Investigations are ongoing and more than 1,500 cases are currently being reviewed for potential claims.

This outbreak is not just a travel advisory; it highlights the vulnerabilities in global tourism where natural disasters, infrastructure damage and hygiene lapses can combine with deadly consequences. For travelers, it’s a stark reminder to remain vigilant about what they eat and drink and for families, a painful call for accountability and answers.

As this situation develops, authorities continue to monitor infections closely and urge travelers to take all recommended precautions. Stay with us for continuous updates on the Cape Verde outbreak and keep informed about global travel safety and health alerts.

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