How concerned should we be about shigella in Cape Verde?
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There has been a rise in cases of shigella, a bacteria that causes severe diarrhoea and fever, among tourists returning from Cape Verde. The UK and EU health authorities have warned of the increase, but Cape Verde's tourism minister insists the islands are safe for visitors.
Shigella cases have risen among tourists returning from Cape Verde. The bacteria causes severe diarrhoea, fever, and stomach cramps. The UK and EU health authorities have reported a rise in cases, with 158 cases in the UK since October 2025. Most cases were linked to travel to the Santa Maria and Boa Vista areas. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control carried out a risk assessment in 2022 and reported 258 cases linked to Cape Verde. The UK Health Security Agency has warned those with underlying health conditions to speak to a healthcare professional before travelling.
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