Cape Verde – Travelers Face Ongoing Risk of Shigella and Salmonella Infections

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Wave of Cases Spans Years and Borders (Image Credits: Pexels)

Cape Verde – Health authorities across Europe, the UK, and the US have documented more than 1,000 cases of shigellosis and other gastrointestinal illnesses in individuals returning from the island nation since September 2022.[1][2] Laboratory analysis of patient samples frequently reveals Shigella and Salmonella bacteria, pointing to a sustained environmental or transmission issue likely tied to food or water sources. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control recently updated its assessment, maintaining a moderate risk level for visitors to the popular Santa Maria region on Sal island.

Wave of Cases Spans Years and Borders

Confirmed and possible shigellosis infections reached 766 between September 2022 and March 2026, affecting travelers from multiple nations. The United Kingdom reported the highest number at 263 cases, followed closely by Sweden with 120.[2] Other countries including Germany, France, and the Netherlands also saw significant figures, with smaller clusters in Belgium, Denmark, and beyond.

Health agencies noted over 300 additional gastrointestinal infections during the same timeframe. These encompassed salmonellosis, campylobacteriosis, giardiasis, and various E. coli strains. Most patients had stayed at resorts in the Santa Maria area, raising concerns about localized contamination.

Laboratory Insights Reveal Persistent Strains

Testing consistently identified Shigella sonnei as the dominant strain in returning travelers since late 2022. A specific outbreak variant persisted, alongside Salmonella strains noted from 2024 onward.[3] Such patterns suggested ongoing exposure rather than isolated incidents.

Officials assessed the infection source as unidentified but strongly indicative of foodborne or waterborne pathways. Person-to-person spread remained possible through fecal-oral routes, particularly in close-contact settings. The moderate risk rating for new cases in Santa Maria reflected continued detections into early 2026.

Essential Precautions for Safe Travel

Travelers received clear guidance to minimize risks during visits to Cape Verde. Strict handwashing emerged as a cornerstone, especially before meals and after restroom use. Boiled or bottled water became essential to avoid tap sources.

Food choices mattered greatly in prevention efforts. Authorities urged consumption of thoroughly cooked, hot-served dishes while steering clear of raw or underprepared items.

• Wash hands frequently with soap and clean water.
• Opt for freshly cooked foods served piping hot.
• Avoid salads, unpeeled fruits, vegetables, and ice in beverages.
• Drink only sealed bottled or boiled water.
• Seek medical care promptly for symptoms like diarrhea, fever, or cramps.

Local Authorities Push Back on Warnings

Cape Verde’s Ministry of Health contested recent illness reports earlier this year. Officials described the claims as serious and disproportionate, potentially sparking unnecessary panic about national health standards. They emphasized that timing of travel and symptoms did not prove causation.

Despite defenses, European monitors upheld their advisories based on genomic clustering and epidemiological links. A UK law firm reported representing over 1,500 affected British travelers since 2022, underscoring the issue’s scale for holidaymakers.[1]

Travelers must weigh these persistent risks against Cape Verde’s appeal as a sunny escape. Proactive hygiene practices offer the best defense until authorities pinpoint and resolve the root cause. What steps would you take to stay safe on your next trip? Share your thoughts in the comments.