Cape Verde Illness Claims Rise as Holidaymakers Report Serious Gastric Symptoms
Holiday Lawyers have been contacted by a growing number of holidaymakers who have suffered serious illness while staying in Cape Verde, as concerns mount following widespread reports of gastric illness across hotels on the islands.
We are currently acting for a group of 19 individuals affected by a specific outbreak at a hotel in Cape Verde, all of whom reported symptoms consistent with severe food poisoning on holiday. These cases form part of a broader pattern now emerging, with national media reporting that as many as 1,700 British holidaymakers have been affected in recent incidents across the region.
The consistency of symptoms reported to us – including acute diarrhoea, vomiting, fever and prolonged gastrointestinal issues – raises serious questions about hygiene standards, food handling practices, and the adequacy of preventative systems in place at certain hotels.
What distinguishes these claims is not simply the volume, but the recurrence of similar complaints across different time periods and locations within Cape Verde. This points towards systemic issues rather than isolated incidents.
Holiday Lawyers are uniquely placed in this area. Our lawyers have personally travelled to Cape Verde and inspected a number of hotels used by major tour operators, including TUI Group. During those visits, a number of concerning issues were identified, including poor food hygiene practices, inadequate temperature control, and sanitation concerns within food preparation and service areas. These observations align closely with the accounts now being provided by affected holidaymakers.
Where a package holiday is booked through a UK tour operator, there are clear legal protections in place. Under the Package Travel Regulations, tour operators are responsible for ensuring that hotels meet appropriate standards of safety and hygiene. Where those standards fall short and illness results, affected holidaymakers may be entitled to bring a claim for compensation.
The fact that multiple outbreaks are now being reported, alongside our own direct experience of conditions on the ground, suggests that these cases are unlikely to be isolated. Instead, they reflect a wider issue that tour operators must now address.
Holidaymakers who have suffered illness in Cape Verde are encouraged to seek legal advice promptly. Early investigation allows for evidence to be preserved and strengthens the prospects of a successful claim.
Holiday Lawyers continue to investigate these matters and act for affected clients, with further claims expected as awareness grows



