UK Faces Shigella Outbreak Linked to Cape Verde Travel

More than 130 individuals in the United Kingdom have contracted Shigella sonnei infections linked to travel in Cape Verde. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported an increase in cases, with 137 confirmed patients identified since October. The outbreak has affected 113 people in England, 12 in Scotland, and 12 in Wales, with ages ranging from less than one year to 81 years old. The median age of those affected is 54 years, with the highest incidence occurring among individuals aged 50 to 59.

Connection to Cape Verde

Investigations reveal a strong connection between the outbreak and travel to Cape Verde. Of the 137 reported cases, 116 individuals noted international travel, with 109 of those having visited Cape Verde, particularly the Santa Maria and Boa Vista regions. Genetic analysis of the samples indicates that they share a common source, which raises concerns about the potential for further transmission.

The implicated strain of Shigella sonnei does not exhibit genomic resistance to the common antimicrobials typically used to treat travel-related gastrointestinal infections. The UKHSA has initiated ongoing international communications and investigations to trace the source and mitigate the outbreak.

Previous Incidents and Legal Actions

This outbreak is not an isolated incident; law firm Irwin Mitchell is currently representing over 1,400 British holidaymakers who have reported illnesses linked to stays in Cape Verde since 2022. These cases include confirmed diagnoses of E. coli, Salmonella, Shigella, and Cryptosporidium, with some individuals requiring hospital treatment either abroad or upon their return to the UK.

In February 2023, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) noted a surge in shigellosis cases primarily caused by Shigella sonnei among travelers returning from Cape Verde. Since September 2022, over 250 infections were documented across 10 European countries, including the UK and the United States.

Michael Walker, a partner at Holiday Claims Bureau, emphasized the worrying trend of illness reports associated with Cape Verde. He stated, “Tour operators and package holiday resorts must be held accountable for failing to maintain even the most basic health and hygiene standards expected by holidaymakers.”

Shigella infection typically leads to severe diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, with symptoms appearing one to two days after exposure. The illness generally lasts between 5 to 7 days, but some individuals may experience symptoms that persist for several weeks. The bacteria are transmitted through contact with contaminated feces, which can occur directly or indirectly via contaminated food, water, or surfaces. Infection is often linked to travel in regions where the disease is endemic.

As the UKHSA and public health authorities continue their investigation, travelers to high-risk areas are urged to take precautions to protect their health.