How many Shigella cases are linked to Cape Verde?

Since October 1, 2025, 158 Shigella cases have been confirmed, with 112 individuals reporting recent travel to Cape Verde.

What are the health concerns for travelers to Cape Verde?

There is an increase in reports of Shigella sonnei and Salmonella infection in travellers returning from Cape Verde, prompting health investigations.

What hygiene advice is given to travellers?

Travellers are urged to maintain good food and water hygiene at all times, including regular handwashing and exercising caution about where you eat and drink.

Home / Health / Cape Verde Illnesses Surge: Shigella & Salmonella Fears

Cape Verde Illnesses Surge: Shigella & Salmonella Fears

6 Feb

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Summary

158 Shigella cases confirmed since October 1, 2025, mostly linked to Cape Verde travel.
43 Salmonella cases across UK, with many patients recently visiting Cape Verde.
Travellers urged to maintain good food and water hygiene to prevent illness.

Cape Verde Illnesses Surge: Shigella & Salmonella Fears

Since October 1, 2025, health authorities have recorded 158 confirmed cases of Shigella. A significant majority, 112 individuals, reported recent travel to Cape Verde, with the popular regions of Santa Maria and Boa Vista most frequently associated with these cases. This situation is ongoing as of February 6, 2026.

In parallel, 43 cases of Salmonella have been confirmed across England, Scotland, and Wales during the same period. Of these patients, 32 had recently visited the Cape Verdean islands, prompting a health investigation. The UK Health Security Agency is actively looking into the rise of both Shigella sonnei and Salmonella infections among returning travelers.

To safeguard against these illnesses, which are transmitted through unsafe food and water, travelers are being strongly urged to consistently practice good food and water hygiene. This includes diligent handwashing and exercising caution regarding food and drink consumption while abroad.