Story Highlight
– Over 1,700 people suing Tui for illness outbreaks.
– At least eight Britons dead linked to Shigella bacteria.
– UK Health Security Agency investigating illness cases in Cape Verde.
– Tui prioritizes customer health; expresses condolences to families.
– Legal action may result in millions in damages for clients.
Full Story
Over 1,700 individuals have initiated legal proceedings against Tui, a prominent travel company, following a series of severe illness outbreaks linked to Shigella bacteria at resorts in the popular holiday destination of Cape Verde. Tragically, at least eight British nationals, including a father from County Durham, have died as a result of these outbreaks.
The West African archipelago, famed for its golden beaches and perpetual sunshine, has reported a concerning rise in illness cases, prompting an investigation by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). This investigation led to the issuance of guidance aimed at protecting future travellers to the region amid rising health concerns.
Solicitors from Irwin Mitchell, who are representing those affected, have stated they continue to receive reports from individuals who have fallen ill at Tui properties as recently as a fortnight ago. The increasing frequency of these cases has alarmed health officials and prompted calls for urgent investigations into the sanitary conditions prevalent at these resorts.
In response to the tragedy, a Tui spokesperson expressed profound sorrow over the reports of illness and extended heartfelt condolences to the families affected. “We are deeply saddened by the reports of these tragic losses,” the spokesperson said. “While we cannot comment on individual cases, customer health and safety is always our highest priority. We have established procedures in place to support any customer who becomes unwell while on holiday, including access to appropriate medical care and assistance in resort.”
The family of the deceased man from County Durham is part of the growing group taking legal action against Tui. His wife shared her devastation, stating, “We’re still in complete shock over his death. My husband was my soulmate and an absolutely wonderful, loving and caring dad.” She further articulated her wish for other families to avoid experiencing similar tragedies, underscoring the urgent need for awareness about the prevailing health risks faced by holidaymakers in Cape Verde.
Local authorities in Cape Verde have confirmed the presence of Shigella bacteria in irrigation water and fresh produce on the islands of Sal and Boa Vista. Following reports of suspected gastroenteritis affecting European tourists, an investigation has been launched to address these troubling health concerns.
Jatinder Paul, a solicitor with Irwin Mitchell, highlighted the unprecedented nature of the legal action. “In all my years of doing this work, I have not seen a case this large and unfortunately so many that have died as a result of the illnesses,” he stated during an appearance on BBC Breakfast. Paul emphasised Tui’s responsibility for ensuring the safety of their customers during package holidays, which, regrettably, has not been upheld in this instance. “If we’re unable to resolve them amicably, we expect a judge in the High Court to make an order which would involve payment of millions of pounds worth of damages to our clients,” he added.
The UK Health Security Agency’s investigation, which began in February, has revealed alarming statistics: since October 2025, there have been 112 reported cases of Shigella and 43 cases of Salmonella connected to travel to Cape Verde. Both Shigella and Salmonella infections can lead to severe gastrointestinal symptoms, such as diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and fever.
For those planning trips to Cape Verde, Paul has offered crucial advice regarding food safety. “Shigella is highly contagious,” he warned, noting that consuming contaminated food or water is a primary transmission route. “We’d urge those travelling to ensure they eat fully cooked, steaming hot meals, only choose fruits they can peel, and avoid raw vegetables and salads.” He stressed the importance of addressing hygiene issues reported across the islands in order to prevent further outbreaks.
Victims of the illness have been cautioned against feeling pressured to accept early settlement offers from Tui without fully understanding their legal rights. Paul stressed the importance of seeking independent legal advice, particularly in light of the potential long-term health consequences associated with gastrointestinal illnesses. “The effects of gastric illness should never be downplayed as symptoms can lead to life-long and debilitating complications and even death,” he cautioned.
In summary, the legal action against Tui represents a significant movement by those affected by illness while holidaying in Cape Verde, reflecting broader concerns over health standards in popular tourist destinations. As investigations continue, both holidaymakers and industry operators must remain vigilant and proactive in ensuring safety measures are effectively enforced.
Our Thoughts
To prevent the tragic incidents of illness outbreaks linked to Shigella bacteria at Tui resorts in Cape Verde, several measures could have been implemented. First, thorough risk assessments in line with the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 should have been conducted to evaluate sanitation standards in the resorts, particularly concerning food and water safety.
The failure to ensure that the accommodations met the required hygiene standards breaches the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, which compels employers to ensure, as far as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety of their employees and others affected by their activities.
Regular inspections and stringent hygiene protocols for food handling and preparation, as guided by the Food Safety Act 1990, could have mitigated the spread of infection. Enhanced collaboration with local authorities to monitor public health alerts and immediate corrective action upon detection of contaminants in food and water supplies would have further aligned with best practices in safeguarding public health.
Lastly, providing clear and accessible health and safety information to travelers regarding precautions against gastrointestinal infections could empower them to make informed choices about their health while on holiday. This approach can prevent recurrence of similar incidents in the future.
