Family Urges Caution After Holiday Illnesses in Cape Verde
The relatives of a British woman who tragically died following her holiday in Cape Verde are calling on travellers to heed hygiene warnings. Investigations by UK health officials reveal a concerning rise in severe illnesses among British tourists who’ve visited the popular destination.
What Happened
Karen Pooley, a 64-year-old from Gloucestershire, fell ill while on a two-week vacation in Cape Verde last October. Following her deterioration, she suffered a leg injury in her hotel room. After spending four days in a local clinic, she was transferred to Tenerife, where she sadly passed away the next day.
Her sister-in-law, Kim Price, expressed her heartbreak, stating that Karen “lived the last few days on this Earth in agony”. She emphasized the emotional toll on the family and warned others to be cautious: “I want to make sure it doesn’t happen to anyone else.”
Rising Concerns Among Tourists
Karen’s brother, Keith Price, expressed his fears regarding the increasing number of illnesses, urging potential travellers to conduct thorough research and ensure they have adequate travel insurance. “One person [dying] is too many,” he remarked, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
This week, reports indicated that 200 additional tourists have come forward detailing serious health issues after their trips to Cape Verde. This brings the total number of affected TUI customers to 1,700, as more individuals seek legal action against the holiday company.
Health Authorities Respond
Recent statistics from the UK’s Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reveal that the number of cases linked to the stomach bug shigella has started to decline, but reports of salmonella infections continue to rise. Lead epidemiologist Hannah Charles noted that 158 cases have been associated with this outbreak since October, with over 112 individuals having travelled to Cape Verde shortly before becoming ill.
While the outbreak appears to be slowing, Charles advised travellers to exercise caution: “We’re not saying ‘don’t travel to Cape Verde,’ but it’s important to be aware of the risks.” Recommendations include:
- Choosing freshly prepared and hot meals
- Avoiding salads and raw fruits washed with unsafe water
- Drinking bottled water and avoiding ice cubes in drinks
- Thoroughly washing hands
Legal Actions and Official Statements
Lawyers have noted a surge in inquiries from affected holidaymakers, with serious injury lawyer Jatinder Paul emphasizing the long-lasting implications of gastric illnesses. He called on tour operators to take actionable measures to ensure holidaymakers’ safety.
TUI has not yet responded to requests for comments but previously indicated it is investigating the complaints and providing care for affected customers. Meanwhile, the Cape Verde government has defended its health standards, asserting that the recent illnesses represent statistical anomalies rather than indicative of systemic issues.
Background
Cape Verde has been a popular winter holiday destination for many UK tourists, known for its picturesque scenery and warm climate. However, with the recent reports of illnesses, conversations around hygiene standards and safety protocols for tourists in foreign countries have intensified. The ongoing situation highlights the necessity for travellers to stay informed about health risks associated with destinations they plan to visit.
Source: Original Article
