The Government is warning British travellers about the risks of getting ill in Cape Verde after an investigation revealed increases in Salmonella and Shigella cases.
The investigation, led by The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), found that of the 158 confirmed Shigella cases reported since 1 October 2025, 118 reported international travel. Of these, 112 (95%) travelled to Cape Verde, the majority to the Santa Maria (pictured) and Boa Vista areas.
Additionally, UKHSA has identified increases in cases of Salmonella associated with travel to Cape Verde. Since 1 October 2025, 43 cases of Salmonella have been linked to the holiday destination.
The research found factors that can increase the risk of infections such as Salmonella, Shigella, Giardia and Cryptosporidium, include using local swimming pools, local water and sanitation conditions and possible infection from some foods linked to catered hotels from buffets.
The agency has issued advice ahead of the February half-term for holidaymakers planning to travel to Cape Verde.
Guidelines include washing hands regularly, choosing freshly prepared food, drinking bottled water, avoiding ice in drinks and avoiding salads that may not have been washed in safe water.
Earlier this week, the first class action court case brought by law firm Irwin Mitchell involving 300 holidaymakers who say they fell ill in Cape Verde began in the High Court.
All 300 stayed at the same hotel in Cape Verde in summer 2022.
In total, Irwin Mitchell is representing more than 1,500 British holidaymakers who have suffered gastric illness linked to holidays in Cape Verde since 2022, including the families of six Britons who died, four of them within the last few months.
UKHSA Deputy Director for Gastrointestinal Infections, Food Safety and One Health Dr Gauri Godbole said: “February is a popular time for winter sun holidays and we want to help families make the most of their breaks by staying healthy.
“Taking a few simple precautions against traveller’s diarrhoea and food poisoning can make all the difference.
“The best way to avoid gastrointestinal infections, including Shigella and Salmonella, or passing them to others, is simply by washing your hands regularly and thoroughly with soap and water or alcohol gel – particularly after using the toilet, changing nappies and before eating or preparing food.
“Most episodes of travellers’ diarrhoea are short-lived, lasting for a few days. During an episode of diarrhoea and vomiting, it is important to prevent dehydration particularly for young children, pregnant women, elderly people and those with pre-existing illnesses as they can develop complications.
“Continue to hydrate yourself with plenty of fluids and consider purchasing sachets of oral rehydration salt before travelling. If symptoms worsen or you have underlying medical conditions, please seek advice from your GP or pharmacy.”
