Health Warning Issued Over Cape Verde Travel After Stomach Bug Deaths

February 11

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a travel warning for Cape Verde after many British tourists fell ill with stomach viruses while visiting the West African archipelago.

Since October 1, UKHSA has identified 118 cases of shigella and 43 cases of salmonella linked to trips to Cape Verde. Most people recover within a week; however, four British travellers have died in recent months after contracting these infections.

The warning comes ahead of February half-term, when many UK holidaymakers usually visit this popular winter spot.

Both shigella and salmonella are bacterial infections that affect the gut. They cause symptoms like diarrhoea, fever, and stomach cramps. While most people recover, young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems may face severe or life-threatening complications.

The bacteria spread through contact with contaminated faeces. This can happen directly through person-to-person transmission or indirectly from dirty food, water, or surfaces.

UKHSA advises travellers to Cape Verde to:

- Eat freshly prepared, fully cooked meals served hot.

- Drink bottled or boiled water and avoid ice in drinks.

- Use bottled or boiled water when brushing teeth.

- Peel fruit themselves before eating.

- Avoid salads that may not have been washed in clean water.

"Taking a few simple precautions against traveller’s diarrhoea and food poisoning can make all the difference," said Dr. Gauri Godbole, UKHSA’s deputy director for gastrointestinal infections and food safety.