Cape Verde Outbreak Claims Four British Lives in Three Months
A tragic outbreak in Cape Verde has resulted in the deaths of four British tourists within a span of three months. The incidents have raised critical concerns regarding local healthcare quality and the safety of travelers to this popular holiday destination.
Cape Verde Outbreak Overview
The fatalities include Elena Walsh, 64, who passed away shortly after arriving in Cape Verde on August 1, 2023, with her family. The Walsh family was on a £5,000 Tui package holiday, celebrating Elena’s retirement and her son’s engagement. Shortly after their arrival, Elena contracted a stomach infection, which led to her death after a misdiagnosed appendectomy.
Additional Fatalities
Three other Britons, Karen Pooley, 64, Mark Ashley, 55, and an individual identified only as David Smith, aged 54, also died during this period under similar circumstances. All guests were staying at various Riu hotels in Cape Verde, which are popular among tourists. Their deaths have been attributed to complications not necessarily linked to gastric infections but have nonetheless sparked questions about the adequacy of medical care in the islands.
Healthcare Concerns in Cape Verde
The local healthcare system has faced scrutiny due to reports of poor conditions at medical facilities. Families of the deceased have described local hospitals as being in a state likened to a “war zone.” The British Foreign Office has characterized healthcare in Cape Verde as “very basic and limited.”
- Elena Walsh: Died from heart failure exacerbated by gastroenteritis.
- Karen Pooley: Died after suffering from complications related to a fractured femur.
- Mark Ashley: Experienced sudden health issues leading to his death shortly after returning to the UK.
- David Smith: Was hospitalized for gastroenteritis and sadly passed away due to cardiac arrest.
Rising Health Issues Linked to Tourism
An investigation by the Sunday Times revealed a significant outbreak of shigella, a highly contagious bacterial infection, that afflicted many tourists visiting Cape Verde in late 2023. The infection has been responsible for numerous severe gastrointestinal issues.
Statistics from Outbreak
Recent data indicates that:
- 137 shigella cases were reported from October to December 2023 in the UK.
- 80% of these cases were linked to recent travel to Cape Verde.
European health authorities confirmed outbreaks of shigella among other tourists returning from the islands, prompting travel advisories from multiple countries, including the UK.
Travel Safety and Recommendations
Following these incidents, officials have advised travelers to exercise caution. Recommendations include:
- Wash hands frequently.
- Consume only freshly prepared, hot food.
- Avoid untreated water, including that from swimming pools.
In light of these tragic events and ongoing health concerns, many families are urging potential travelers to reconsider visits to Cape Verde. The situation remains fluid, and ongoing investigations by healthcare authorities may prompt further actions.
As tourism begins to recover, both Tui and Riu Hotels have expressed their condolences to the families affected and pledged to work with local governments to ensure safer conditions for visiting guests.
