More than 1,700 Brits who fell ill in Cape Verde join action against Tui
More than 1,700 Britons in Legal Action Over Cape Verde Illnesses
Over 1,700 British individuals have joined legal proceedings against travel company Tui after falling ill during holidays in Cape Verde, as reported by Irwin Mitchell solicitors to the BBC. The law firm, handling personal injury claims, stated that recent cases have been reported within the last fortnight. They allege that at least eight Britons have died following trips to the West African archipelago in recent years.
Health Warnings and Tui’s Response
In February, UK health officials raised concerns about gastrointestinal infections linked to travel to Cape Verde. Tui is currently reviewing the claims but has not yet issued a formal statement, citing its lack of access to the full health report from the country, which remains unpublished.
“In all my years of doing this work, I have not seen a case this large,” said Jatinder Paul of Irwin Mitchell. “Unfortunately, so many have died as a result of these illnesses. We are pursuing every case against Tui, which had a responsibility to ensure holidays were safe from illness.” Paul emphasized that if settlements cannot be reached, a judge may order millions in damages.
Irwin Mitchell highlighted that clients have reported contracting E. coli, salmonella, shigella, and parasitic infections like cryptosporidium. Affected individuals include infants as young as six months. The UK Health Security Agency’s investigation revealed 112 shigella and 43 salmonella cases linked to Cape Verde trips since October 2025.
Tragic Cases Highlight Concerns
Elena Walsh, a 64-year-old from Birmingham, died on 10 August last year after falling ill at the RIU Cabo Verde resort. Her son Sean described the rapid decline in her condition. “We were with her all night, trying to see if she’d recover, but she just worsened,” he said.
“I want people to avoid going there,” Sean added. “While some return unscathed, my mum didn’t. If people are willing to take that risk, fine, but I’d say don’t.”
Karen Pooley, 64, from Lydney, died in October 2025 after a two-week holiday booked through Tui. She slipped on water from a fridge while running to the bathroom, breaking her leg. Sepsis and multi-organ failure led to her death the following day.
“No family should endure this,” said Liz Pooley, Karen’s daughter. “Facing her on a Friday night and then arranging her funeral by the next.”
RIU Hotels and Resorts defended its practices, stating its Cape Verde properties adhere to international health and hygiene standards verified by external consultants. Tui also noted it offers support for customers who fall ill in resort, ensuring access to medical care.
