Recent outbreaks of a contagious illness in Cape Verde have resulted in the tragic deaths of four British nationals over a brief three-month period. This alarming trend prompts serious concerns about the safety and quality of healthcare on the islands.
Deaths of British Tourists in Cape Verde
The first notable case was Elena Walsh, a 64-year-old woman who passed away shortly after arriving in Cape Verde on August 1, 2022. Walsh was vacationing with her family to celebrate her upcoming retirement and her son’s engagement. Sadly, she contracted a stomach bug that led to her hospital admission. Despite attempts to diagnose her condition, local doctors incorrectly suspected appendicitis, which resulted in a life-threatening complication during surgery. Her eventual cause of death was determined to be heart failure, with gastroenteritis listed as a secondary cause.
Walsh was not alone; following her death, three other Britons succumbed to various medical complications exacerbated by inadequate healthcare services. Karen Pooley, 64, Mark Ashley, 55, and a man known as David Smith, 54, all fell ill under similar circumstances during their stays at Riu hotels, raising questions about the adequacy of medical treatment available on the islands.
Investigation into Hospital Conditions
- Local hospitals have been criticized for their poor conditions, with reports of one facility being likened to a “war zone.”
- A Sunday Times investigation revealed significant complaints from families regarding the quality of care in Cape Verdean hospitals.
The Foreign Office describes the healthcare on the islands as “very basic and limited,” prompting concerns for tourists, especially those with pre-existing health conditions.
Outbreak of Shigella in Cape Verde
In recent months, Cape Verde experienced a notable outbreak of shigella, a bacterial infection that can cause severe gastrointestinal distress. Between October and December 2022, the UK Health Security Agency recorded 137 cases, with a significant number of patients returning from Cape Verde. European health officials reported that many of those affected had visited the islands shortly before falling ill.
Additionally, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control noted a rise in cases linked to recent travelers from various European nations, including the UK, Sweden, and Ireland. Health professionals warn that while shigella can resolve without medical intervention, it poses a serious risk to individuals with existing health conditions.
Travel Advisory and Recommendations
As a precaution, the Foreign Office issued a health warning for British tourists visiting Cape Verde, advising them to maintain strict hygiene practices and to seek medical advice promptly if they become unwell. Specific recommendations include:
- Wash hands regularly.
- Consume only freshly prepared, piping hot meals.
- Avoid untreated water from pools.
Response from Tui and Riu Hotels
In light of these incidents, Tui and Riu Hotels expressed their condolences to the families affected and emphasized their commitment to customer safety. Tui noted that it continues to sell package holidays to Cape Verde, while Riu Hotels stated they are working with local authorities to improve conditions related to healthcare and pest control.
The tragic deaths of these four British tourists underscore the pressing need for improved health infrastructure in Cape Verde, particularly in light of the recent outbreaks. As tourist numbers continue to rise, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of visitors to this popular destination must remain a top priority.
