As thousands of UK families prepare to travel for the February half-term break, new data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is raising fresh health concerns for travellers heading to Cape Verde, one of the most popular winter sun destinations for Britons and UK-based diaspora communities.
Cape Verde, long favoured by African, Caribbean and European diaspora families for its sunshine, affordability and cultural ties, has been linked to a growing number of gastrointestinal infections among returning UK travellers. Health officials are now urging caution, especially for families travelling with children, order relatives or those with underlying health conditions.
An investigation led by UKHSA, working with international public health partners, found that since 1 October 2025 there have been 158 confirmed cases of Shigella linked to this outbreak. Of those cases, 118 involved international travel, and 112 of them, around 95 per cent, had travelled to Cape Verde. Most visitors reported staying in the Santa Maria and Boa Vista areas, popular resort locations among UK holidaymakers. Travel details for the remaining cases are still being assessed.
Alongside this, UKHSA has also identified a separate rise in Salmonella infections associated with travel to Cape Verde. Since October, 43 cases across three distinct clusters have been confirmed through whole genome sequencing, all linked to recent travel to the islands.
With many UK residents finalising travel plans, UKHSA is encouraging travellers to check the Travel Health Pro website, which provides up-to-date, UK government-backed guidance on staying healthy abroad. The site has recently updated its Cape Verde advice, including specific steps to reduce the risk of stomach infections while travelling.
Dr Gauri Godbole, Deputy Director for Gastrointestinal Infections, Food Safety and One Health at UKHSA, said February is one of the busiest times for winter sun travel and the agency wants families to enjoy their holidays without health setbacks. She stressed that simple precautions can significantly reduce the risk of traveller’s diarrhoea and food poisoning.
According to Dr Godbole, regular and thorough handwashing with soap and water, or alcohol gel when handwashing isn’t possible, remains one of the most effective ways to prevent infections like Shigella and Salmonella. This is especially important after using the toilet, changing nappies and before eating or preparing food.
Most cases of traveller’s diarrhoea tend to be mild and short-lived, often clearing within a few days. However, dehydration can become dangerous, particularly for young children, pregnant people, older adults and people with pre-existing health conditions. Travellers are advised to drink plenty of fluids, consider carrying oral rehydration salts, and seek medical advice if symptoms worsen or persist.
A recent UKHSA study into travel-related gastrointestinal infections highlights several factors that can increase the risk of illness abroad. These include exposure to local swimming pools, differences in water and sanitation standards, and food from hotel buffets or meals consumed during excursions and day trips. While many resorts cater heavily to international visitors, infection risks can still arise if hygiene standards slip.
Health officials say travellers can significantly lower their risk by being mindful of food choices, water sources and personal hygiene. Anyone who develops diarrhoea while abroad should stay hydrated and seek medical help promptly, particularly if they experience fever or blood in their stool.
The Travel Health Pro website also provides destination-specific advice, including vaccine recommendations and country health profiles. Travellers who may need vaccinations, malaria tablets or tailored travel health advice are encouraged to speak to their GP, pharmacist or a travel clinic ideally four to six weeks before departure, though last-minute consultations can still be useful.
In addition to health guidance, travellers are reminded to review Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office advice on safety, entry requirements and local conditions before travelling.
For UK-based diaspora families, many of whom travel regularly to sun destinations during school breaks or to reconnect with culture and community, staying informed and prepared can make the difference between a memorable holiday and a disrupted one. Chijos News will continue to follow updates on travel health risks affecting communities across the UK and beyond.