Tui issues statement after Brits take legal action against travel company after Cape Verde illnesses

The UK Health Security agency issued a statement advising travellers to Cape Verde in February of this year. The statement read that new data from the UK Health Security agency said that it “highlights cases of Shigella and Salmonella linked to travel to Cape Verde, a popular winter sun destination for British holidaymakers.”

It also said: “An investigation led by UKHSA, together with other public health agencies, found that of the 158 confirmed Shigella cases reported since 1 October 2025 that are within this outbreak, 118 reported international travel. Of these, 112 (95%) travelled to Cape Verde, the majority to the Santa Maria and Boa Vista areas. Travel information for the remaining cases is not known.”

According to the website of Irwin Mitchell Solicitors, “Our international illness team is representing a growing number of UK holidaymakers who suffered serious illness after travelling to Cape Verde, with many cases linked to stays at hotels and resorts operated by TUI.

“Following extensive investigations, we have launched High Court proceedings on behalf of hundreds of affected holidaymakers, many of whom fell ill during or shortly after holidays taken between 2022 and 2025. We are currently investigating more than 1700 cases, including claims involving long‑term health complications and, in the most serious circumstances, fatalities.

“Clients have reported contracting severe gastric illnesses, including E. coli, salmonella, shigella, and parasitic infections such as cryptosporidium, with many requiring hospital treatment either abroad or after returning to the UK. Those affected include children as young as six-months-old.

“It is alleged that the illnesses may be linked to poor hygiene standards and food safety failings, and that TUI breached its legal duties by failing to protect holidaymakers from illness and by not ensuring that hotel and swimming pool facilities were maintained to reasonable standards of cleanliness.

Jatinder Paul, the lawyer representing the holidaymakers said: "Many of our clients for whom we’ve issued legal proceedings on behalf of continue to suffer from debilitating symptoms linked to their illness. While it’s too late for those we represent in terms of their holiday being ruined by such illness, we’re determined to provide them with the answers they deserve and where appropriate access to ongoing support and treatment they may require."

NationalWorld contacted Tui to ask them if they had a statement regarding the Cape Verde claim. A spokesperson for the travel company said: “We are deeply saddened by the reports of these tragic losses and extend our sincere condolences to the families affected.

“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.

“We continue to follow FCDO advice and engage with hotel partners and relevant authorities where appropriate.”