More than 1,700 Brits who fell ill in Cape Verde join action against Tui
More than 1,700 Britons Affected by Illnesses in Cape Verde Sue Tui
Legal representatives have confirmed that over 1,700 British individuals have enrolled in lawsuits against Tui following health complications during their vacations in the Cape Verde archipelago. The cases involve people who fell ill as recently as two weeks ago, with the legal team indicating that eight British nationals have died from ailments linked to their trips in recent years.
Health Warnings and Ongoing Investigations
In February, UK health authorities issued a warning about travel to Cape Verde after reports of gastrointestinal infections surfaced. Tui is currently examining the claims but has stated it cannot issue a formal statement until it obtains the full health report from the country, which remains unpublished.
Scope of Illnesses and Hotel Conditions
Irwin Mitchell solicitors have documented cases of bacterial infections such as E. coli, salmonella, and shigella, as well as parasitic diseases like cryptosporidium. The affected range from infants to adults, including children as young as six months. A February investigation by the UK Health Security Agency noted 112 shigella and 43 salmonella cases since October 2025 tied to Cape Verde visits. These pathogens can lead to symptoms like diarrhoea, cramping, and fever.
Specific Cases and Family Accounts
Elena Walsh, a 64-year-old from Birmingham, died on 10 August after falling ill during a Tui-organized trip to the RIU Cabo Verde resort. Her son, Sean Walsh, described the rapid decline:
“Through the night, we were there with her trying to see if she’d pull out of it, but she just deteriorated.”
He urged others to avoid the destination, stating,
“I just want people to not go there. Because, yes people can go on holidays there and come back and be fine but my mum didn’t.”
Karen Pooley, 64, from Lydney, died in October after slipping on water from a fridge while running to the bathroom, fracturing her leg. She was airlifted to Tenerife on 16 October and succumbed to sepsis and multi-organ failure the following day. Her daughter, Liz Pooley, criticized Tui, saying,
“No family should go through this, no family should have to FaceTime their mum on a Friday night, and by the following Friday, organise a funeral.”
Tui’s Response and Legal Expectations
Tui claims it supports customers who fall ill in resort, ensuring they receive proper care. However, the legal team anticipates a High Court ruling if settlements are not reached, potentially awarding millions in damages. The company has also been compiling evidence of hygiene and food safety issues at some Cape Verde hotels, including footage of undercooked meals and moldy rooms.
Cape Verde, a former Portuguese colony, remains a favored destination for its beaches and warm climate. Since 2022, Tui has transported over a million tourists there. Despite this, the current
