UK Health Agency Didn’t Warn Cape Verde of Gastro Alert
A recent advisory from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has drawn attention to potential health risks for travelers heading to Cape Verde. This warning highlights the need for travelers to take precautions against gastrointestinal infections, including shigella and salmonella.
UKHSA Health Alert for Cape Verde Travelers
In a notable announcement, the UKHSA advised travelers this past week as a precautionary measure leading up to the February half-term holidays. The agency previously alerted the public in December about an uptick in shigella infections linked to travel to Cape Verde, a popular tourist destination.
Current Health Risks
- Shigella infections can lead to severe diarrhea and fever.
- Salmonella cases have also increased, creating concern among health officials.
The warnings issued by UKHSA are unprecedented since the agency’s inception during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021. Andy Cooper, a former director general of the Federation of Tour Operators, remarked on the agency’s unusual combination of health warnings pertaining to two different pathogens, noting their distinct transmission methods.
Recent Statistics
As of October 1, the UKHSA confirmed:
- 158 cases of shigella, with 112 linked to travel to Cape Verde.
- 43 cases of salmonella associated with travel to the same destination.
The number of shigella cases has increased from 137 in December and salmonella cases have also seen a rise. This information raises questions regarding the healthcare infrastructure on the islands, especially as the number of UK tourists visiting Cape Verde has surged to approximately 250,000 annually over the past decade.
Reactions from Cape Verde Officials
José Luis Sá Nogueira, the tourism and transport minister of Cape Verde, has responded by stating that there is no declared outbreak of shigella within their territory. He emphasized that there has been no formal notification from the UK regarding any epidemiological outbreak originating from Cape Verde.
The minister reassured that the nation maintains active health surveillance systems and is dedicated to health protection standards. He expressed willingness for collaboration with international health authorities to ensure traveler safety.
Impact on Tour Operators
Tui, the leading tour operator to Cape Verde, addressed the health warning during their quarterly financial results announcement. CEO Sebastian Ebel stated that the average illness rate for travelers remains below standards in Germany.
In contrast, Tui UK faces legal challenges from multiple holidaymakers claiming illnesses during their stays in Cape Verde last year when hotels were reopening after extended closures due to the pandemic.
Conclusion
The UKHSA’s health alert underscores the importance of awareness among travelers considering Cape Verde. Those planning to visit the islands are encouraged to stay informed through official health resources to ensure a safe travel experience.
