Six British Tourists Die in Cape Verde Gastric Illness Outbreak Linked to RIU Resorts
Key Takeaways
- Six British tourists died from a gastric illness linked to Cape Verde travel.
- Outbreak sickened hundreds of travelers.
- Cape Verde travel is the outbreak source, as reported by multiple outlets.
Deadly Outbreak
Six British tourists died after contracting severe gastric illnesses during their holidays in Cape Verde.
“Six British nationals have died after suffering severe gastric illnesses during their holidays in Cape Verde since January 2023”
All had booked their trips through TUI and stayed at RIU resorts on the island of Sal.
More than 1,500 British tourists fell ill in the same period.
The UK Health Security Agency linked the cases to Salmonella and Shigella infections.
Victims and Investigations
Mark Ashley showed symptoms three days after arrival and died after returning to the UK.
His wife reported serious sanitation deficiencies at the hotel.
Karen Pooley died after sustaining a fall caused by a water leak in her room.
Investigations identified Shigella in irrigation water and imported foods.
Travel Industry Accountability
The affected families recounted difficulties in communicating with local authorities and the travel agency.
“A widow fears that her ex-husband from the Royal Navy may be the latest British victim of the outbreak in Cape Verde that has claimed the lives of four other British tourists from stomach illnesses”
TUI was notified of the illness via its official app on October 9.
More than 1,500 tourists were affected and six have died.
Irwin Mitchell has started legal proceedings against TUI.
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