Shigella Scare: Travellers Warned After Cape Verde Infections Spike
European health agencies are sounding the alarm over a surge in Shigella infections among travellers returning from the popular island nation of Cape Verde. This concerning trend is prompting a timely reminder about the critical importance of hygiene and food safety practices, especially when venturing abroad.
Understanding Shigella: A Highly Contagious Threat
Shigella is a formidable bacteria responsible for a common gastrointestinal illness known as shigellosis. The symptoms can be unpleasant, ranging from mild discomfort to severe bouts of diarrhoea, fever, and debilitating stomach cramps. On a global scale, the impact of Shigella is substantial, with an estimated 188 million cases occurring annually and tragically claiming over 1.6 lakh lives each year.
The ease with which Shigella spreads is a significant factor in its prevalence. Transmission occurs readily through contact with contaminated food, water, or surfaces. Alarmingly, it can also spread directly from person to person. This makes travel environments, particularly shared spaces like hotels and resorts, fertile ground for the bacteria to take hold and proliferate.
A Spike in Cases: The Cape Verde Connection
Health authorities across Europe have noted a distinct increase in travel-associated Shigella infections. Data from the UK Health Security Agency, for instance, reveals 158 cases reported since October 2025, with the vast majority linked to international travel. A significant proportion of these infected travellers had recently holidayed in Cape Verde, with popular tourist hubs such as Santa Maria and Boa Vista frequently mentioned.
This pattern isn’t confined to one nation. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control has been monitoring hundreds of cases across several European countries, including France, Sweden, and the Netherlands. Investigations point towards a specific strain of Shigella sonnei being responsible for many of these infections, suggesting a potential common source or an ongoing transmission route affecting travellers.
While the observed increase is notable and has prompted a heightened alert, health officials are currently assessing whether the situation constitutes a large-scale outbreak.
Outbreak or Elevated Incidence? The Debate Continues
There appears to be a difference in interpretation regarding the current situation. European health bodies have labelled it an “outbreak” due to the significant rise above expected baseline levels. Conversely, public health officials in Cape Verde maintain that their surveillance systems have not detected an outbreak within their borders.
Local authorities have suggested that increases in diarrhoea cases are not uncommon in hotel settings globally. They also highlight that some rapid tests used in private clinics may not be specific enough to definitively identify Shigella. Comprehensive investigations are actively underway to pinpoint the exact origins of these infections.
Who’s Most at Risk? Identifying Vulnerable Groups
Certain individuals are inherently more susceptible to Shigella infection. These include very young children, individuals with compromised immune systems, and those who are travelling internationally. Experts also caution that the risk of exposure escalates in environments where hygiene standards may fluctuate.
Interestingly, a number of affected travellers were reportedly staying in high-end, all-inclusive resorts. This observation underscores the fact that even premium accommodation does not offer complete immunity from such health risks, reinforcing the need for universal vigilance.
Essential Travel Advice: Prevention is Key
Despite the ongoing concerns, Cape Verde’s tourism authorities are keen to reassure visitors that the destination remains safe. With over 1.2 million tourists annually, including a substantial contingent from the UK, officials argue that the proportion of reported infections remains relatively low.
Travel medicine specialists and health experts largely agree that the focus should remain firmly on prevention rather than travel avoidance. Implementing straightforward, yet highly effective, hygiene measures can significantly mitigate the risk of contracting Shigella and other travel-related illnesses.
- Frequent Handwashing: This is paramount. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating or after using the restroom.
- Hand Sanitiser: Carry and use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser (at least 60% alcohol) when soap and water are not readily available.
- Food Safety:
- Consume freshly cooked food that is served hot.
- Avoid raw or undercooked meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs.
- Be cautious with fruits and vegetables that cannot be peeled; opt for those you can peel yourself or ensure they have been thoroughly washed.
- Water Safety:
- Drink bottled water or water that has been purified or boiled.
- Avoid ice in drinks unless you are certain it’s made from safe water.
- Be mindful of water used for brushing your teeth.
It’s worth noting that gastrointestinal illnesses are a relatively common occurrence during international travel, particularly in warmer climates. A significant percentage of travellers may experience some form of digestive upset during their trips, making adherence to these preventative measures all the more important.
