UK Reports Over 130 Shigella Cases Linked to Travel in Cape Verde

More than 130 individuals in the United Kingdom have reported infections caused by Shigella, a highly contagious bacteria, following travels to Cape Verde. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has identified a significant increase in cases of Shigella sonnei since October, with 137 confirmed cases documented so far. The outbreak has predominantly affected women, with 99 cases reported among female patients.

Of the total cases, 113 are in England, while 12 each are located in Scotland and Wales. Patients range in age from less than one year to 81 years, with a median age of 54. The demographic most impacted appears to be individuals aged 50 to 59.

Investigation Links to Cape Verde

Preliminary evidence suggests that the outbreak is linked to travel in Cape Verde. Out of the 137 cases, 116 individuals reported traveling internationally, and an overwhelming 109 of these had visited Cape Verde, particularly the regions of Santa Maria and Boa Vista. Genetic analysis of the samples indicates a common source for the infections, which has raised concerns among health officials.

Researchers have noted that the strain of Shigella sonnei identified does not exhibit genomic resistance to common antimicrobials typically used in treating travel-related diarrhea. This is a crucial detail as health authorities continue their investigations.

The ongoing investigation includes contributions from Public Health Scotland (PHS), Public Health Wales (PHW), and the Public Health Agency in Northern Ireland. Communications with international health bodies are also part of the response strategy.

Previous Health Concerns in Cape Verde

This outbreak is not an isolated incident. The law firm Irwin Mitchell is currently representing over 1,400 British holidaymakers who have reportedly suffered illnesses linked to trips to Cape Verde since 2022. These cases include confirmed diagnoses of E. coli, Salmonella, Shigella, and Cryptosporidium, with some patients requiring hospitalization either during their trip or upon returning to the UK.

In February 2023, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) announced a rise in shigellosis cases among travelers returning from Cape Verde, with over 250 infections reported across ten European countries, as well as in the UK and the US since September 2022.

“We’re seeing a deeply concerning trend in illness reports from Cape Verde,” said Michael Walker, a partner at Holiday Claims Bureau. “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 infections can lead to symptoms such as severe diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, typically appearing one to two days after exposure. While symptoms generally last between 5 to 7 days, some individuals may experience issues for several weeks. The bacteria are transmitted through contact with contaminated feces, whether through direct person-to-person contact or indirectly via contaminated food, water, or surfaces.

The UKHSA continues to monitor the situation closely as health authorities work to mitigate further infections and ensure the safety of travelers returning from Cape Verde.