Cape Verde travel health warning has been issued by UK health officials after more than 160 British travellers were diagnosed with serious stomach infections linked to trips to the popular holiday destination.
The alert comes just before the February half-term, when thousands of UK tourists are expected to visit the West African island chain.
Rising cases of stomach infections
Since 1 October, the UK Health Security Agency has identified 118 cases of shigella and 43 cases of salmonella connected to travel to Cape Verde. Both are bacterial infections that affect the gut.
While most people recover within a week, some groups are at higher risk. Four British holidaymakers died within months of contracting stomach illnesses after travelling there.
What are shigella and salmonella?
Shigella and salmonella are infections that cause diarrhoea, fever and stomach cramps. In healthy adults, symptoms usually improve quickly. However, young children, elderly people, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems can become seriously ill.
The bacteria spread through contact with contaminated food, water, surfaces or person-to-person transmission.
Areas most affected
Most of the reported infections connected to the Cape Verde travel health warning have been linked to the Santa Maria resort area on Sal Island and the island of Boa Vista. Both locations are well-known holiday spots, especially popular with British tourists seeking winter sunshine and beach breaks.
Cape Verde’s government has stated that there is no declared outbreak within its territory and that its health monitoring systems remain active.
Safety advice for travellers
Following the Cape Verde travel health warning, UK authorities have advised travellers to take extra precautions:
- Eat freshly prepared food that is fully cooked and served hot
- Drink bottled or boiled water
- Avoid ice in drinks
- Use bottled or boiled water to brush teeth
- Peel fruit yourself before eating
- Avoid salads that may not have been washed properly
Health experts stress that careful handwashing with soap and water is one of the most effective ways to prevent infection.
Concerns raised by families
The seriousness of the situation highlighted in the Cape Verde travel health warning is reflected in the fact that six British tourists have died after visiting the islands since early 2023. Four of those deaths were connected to stomach infections. Families of those who died have since raised concerns about hygiene standards at certain resorts.
Legal claims have been filed against a package holiday company, though investigations are ongoing.
Infrastructure damage and disease risk
The background to the Cape Verde travel health warning also includes hurricane damage suffered last year, which disrupted water and sanitation systems across parts of the islands. Health experts have warned that damaged infrastructure can increase the risk of contaminated water and the spread of infectious diseases.
Final thoughts
The Cape Verde travel health warning does not mean travellers should cancel plans, but it highlights the importance of basic hygiene and food safety precautions. Most people recover quickly from stomach bugs, yet awareness and prevention remain essential to avoid serious complications.
Situations like this highlight the wider importance of health awareness and preventive safety measures when travelling abroad. Organisations such as OSH Association focus on promoting health protection, hygiene standards, and risk prevention in both workplace and community settings. Access to reliable health guidance can help travellers and organisations reduce risks and respond effectively during public health concerns.
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