Deadly Infection Outbreak Hits Cape Verde

Cape Verde’s tourism sector is facing intense international scrutiny following a deadly outbreak of a severe gastrointestinal infection that has claimed the lives of six British tourists and left more than 1,500 others ill. The outbreak, linked to shigella bacteria, has raised serious concerns about food safety and hygiene standards at popular resort hotels and has triggered legal action against hotel operators and tour providers.

Deaths mount as legal action begins

Between August 2025 and January 2026, British holidaymakers staying at all-inclusive resorts in Cape Verde began reporting severe stomach illnesses. Most of the affected guests had stayed at hotels operated by the Spanish chain RIU. Six British nationals later died, while hundreds of others required medical treatment after returning home.

One of the victims, 64-year-old Elena Walsh, became critically ill during her stay at a five-star resort. She developed severe diarrhoea, dehydration and fever before her condition rapidly deteriorated. Her family has raised concerns over food preparation and sanitation practices at the hotel.

Personal tragedies behind the outbreak

Another victim, 55-year-old Mark Ashley from Bedfordshire, fell ill shortly after returning from the RIU Palace Santa Maria resort. He collapsed at home and died in hospital. His wife described the family’s shock and pointed to potential food and water hygiene issues observed during the stay.

Karen Pooley, 64, died after staying at the RIU Funana resort on Sal Island. After developing severe symptoms and suffering a fall at the hotel, she was transferred to intensive care in Tenerife, where she later died from complications. Her family has criticised the hotel for inadequate assistance and communication.

Understanding shigella and the scale of the outbreak

Shigella is a highly contagious bacterial infection transmitted through contaminated food or water. While often mild, it can be life-threatening for older adults and vulnerable individuals. The UK Health Security Agency confirmed 137 shigella cases linked to travel to Cape Verde between October and December 2025, prompting the UK Foreign Office to issue travel warnings in December.

Lawsuits target hotel accountability

Families of the victims are pursuing legal claims with the support of UK law firm Irwin Mitchell. Group lawsuits involving more than 300 British tourists are being prepared, with hearings expected to begin in February 2026. The cases focus on alleged failures by hotel operators to maintain adequate hygiene standards and protect guest health.

Legal representatives stress that the scale of illness and fatalities reflects systemic issues rather than isolated incidents.

Tourism reputation under pressure

The outbreak has cast a shadow over Cape Verde’s reputation as a safe holiday destination. Tourism is a cornerstone of the country’s economy, and widespread media coverage of the crisis risks deterring future visitors. Industry observers note that restoring confidence will require decisive action from resort operators and regulators.

Recovery and prevention ahead

As legal proceedings continue, the hospitality sector in Cape Verde is expected to face tighter oversight and increased pressure to improve health and safety practices. The outcome of these cases may influence standards across the wider resort tourism industry.

Conclusion from International Investment experts:
As International Investment experts note, the Cape Verde outbreak represents a critical test for global resort operators. Long-term recovery will depend on transparent investigations, enforceable hygiene reforms and a clear demonstration that guest safety outweighs short-term commercial interests.