Shigella Virus in Cape Verde: Health Expert Advice for Travelers Heading to the Islands

The Shigella outbreak in Cape Verde has raised health concerns for tourists visiting the island nation. With reports of gastric illnesses among travelers returning from the islands, including four British deaths, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is investigating a rise in cases of Shigella sonnei, a bacterial infection that causes severe diarrhea and stomach cramps. Travelers heading to Cape Verde are advised to take extra precautions to avoid illness, particularly in light of recent developments.

The increase in cases, combined with concerns over the limited medical facilities in Cape Verde, has led to health warnings, particularly for travelers from the UK, Europe, and beyond. Here’s everything you need to know about how to stay safe from Shigella while enjoying your trip to this beautiful part of Africa.

What is Shigella and How is It Spread?

Shigella is a group of bacteria that causes a serious gastrointestinal illness known as shigellosis. The infection typically leads to diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. Shigella is primarily spread through contaminated water, food, or by direct contact with infected human feces. While it can be spread from person to person, travelers are more likely to contract it from food and water that hasn’t been properly cleaned or prepared.

Although the virus can affect anyone, certain groups, including young children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems, are at higher risk for complications like dehydration and sepsis. Most healthy individuals will recover within a week, but for others, the symptoms can be life-threatening.

The Situation in Cape Verde

Since the beginning of October 2025, there has been a marked rise in Shigella infections among travelers returning from Cape Verde. The most recent UKHSA report indicated that 109 of the 137 confirmed UK cases had traveled to Cape Verde in the past few months. The country has had previous outbreaks of Shigella, with annual cases in Kerala, India, and other regions, but this surge has raised concerns among public health experts.

The recent deaths of four British nationals, who were believed to have contracted a stomach bug during their holidays, have drawn widespread attention. Although the individuals did not test positive for Shigella or other pathogens, their cases underscore the importance of health safety and preventive measures while traveling, particularly in tropical and hot climates.

Expert Advice on Preventing Shigella Infection

According to Dr. Richard Dawood, a travel medical specialist, diarrhea is one of the most common ailments travelers experience while visiting hot climates like Cape Verde. While it’s often seen as a minor inconvenience, gastrointestinal illnesses can disrupt travel plans, and in severe cases, can lead to hospitalization or worse.

Dr. Dawood emphasizes that travelers must take preventive measures such as:

1. Good hygiene practices: Always use hand sanitizer or wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean water after using the bathroom or handling food.
2. Eat freshly prepared food: Avoid buffets or undercooked food. Opt for meals that are freshly made and served hot.
3. Be cautious with beverages: Avoid ice cubes in drinks and drink only bottled water or boiled water, especially in areas where clean water may not be available.
4. Avoid unpeeled fruits: Only consume fruits that you peel yourself, and avoid salads that may have been washed in untreated water.

If you develop symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, or fever, it’s crucial to stay hydrated. Dr. Dawood recommends using oral rehydration solutions to combat dehydration and prevent more severe complications.

What to Do If You Fall Ill While Abroad

If you begin to feel ill during your trip, the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) advises you to:

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, and use oral rehydration solutions to replenish lost electrolytes.
• Seek medical advice: If symptoms persist for more than a few days or worsen, seek medical attention. Be sure to inform the healthcare provider about your recent travel to Cape Verde or other tropical destinations.
• Practice good hygiene: Wash contaminated clothing and bedding with hot water and disinfect surfaces you have come in contact with.
• Avoid sexual contact: For at least 48 hours after the last episode of diarrhea, avoid sexual contact to prevent further spread of infection.

Cape Verde’s Health System and Travel Insurance

While Cape Verde is a beautiful destination, its medical facilities are limited, particularly in rural areas. It’s essential to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation or local medical treatment. Travelers should be aware that Cape Verde does not accept the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), meaning UK visitors must have their own travel insurance for local treatment or emergency evacuation.

For those planning to visit Cape Verde or other tropical destinations, it’s important to stay informed about health risks, especially gastrointestinal diseases like Shigella. Having the right vaccines, medications, and health advice can significantly reduce the likelihood of illness while abroad.

Key Points to Remember:

• Shigella outbreaks are increasing among travelers returning from Cape Verde, with a notable rise in gastric illnesses reported.
• Travelers should prioritize good hygiene, such as regular handwashing and consuming freshly prepared food.
• Dehydration is a major concern for travelers suffering from diarrhea, so staying hydrated is essential.
• Cape Verde’s healthcare system is limited, so comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended.
• Travelers should seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen after returning home.

Additional Tips for Travelers:

1. Consult a Travel Doctor: Before visiting Cape Verde, consult a travel doctor for personalized advice on vaccinations, medications, and health risks specific to your travel plans.
2. Check the Latest Health Advisories: Stay updated on any health advisories or outbreaks, especially regarding tropical diseases like Shigella.
3. Pack Smart: If traveling to Cape Verde, consider bringing a travel health kit with essentials like antibiotics, oral rehydration salts, and hand sanitizers.

By following these tips and staying informed, you can enjoy a safe and healthy holiday in Cape Verde or any tropical destination while minimizing the risks associated with foodborne illnesses and other travel health concerns.

Disclaimer: The Attached Image in This Article is AI Generated

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