Shigella outbreak in Cape Verde sparks travel concerns as holidaymakers review cancellation options, refunds, travel insurance claims and destination changes.
Shigella outbreak in Cape Verde sparks travel concerns as holidaymakers review cancellation options [Photo: X]
Travel plans can change quickly, especially when health concerns surface. Many UK travellers recently reconsidered their trips to Cape Verde after reports of shigella cases linked to hotels on Sal Island.
For older holidaymakers and those with medical conditions, the news raised serious questions about hygiene standards and access to healthcare. If you have booked a Cape Verde holiday and now feel uncertain, understanding your cancellation rights and options can help you make an informed decision without losing money.
Recent reports linked several cases of shigella infection to hotels in Cape Verde, especially on Sal Island. The outbreak sparked anxiety among tourists who had already booked package holidays.
While authorities continue monitoring the situation, some travellers fear that hygiene standards and local healthcare facilities may not meet their expectations during a health scare. These concerns have led many to review their travel plans and explore cancellation policies.
Health risks affect travellers differently. For younger, healthy tourists, mild illness may seem manageable. However, older couples or those with existing health conditions often take a more cautious approach.
Some travellers have said they no longer feel comfortable travelling after reading about the outbreak. They worry about food safety, access to medical treatment, and whether constant precautions — such as only drinking bottled water — would limit their ability to relax.
When confidence in a destination drops, cancelling or postponing becomes a serious consideration.
If you decide not to travel, follow these practical steps:
If you want to cancel or change your Cape Verde trip, act quickly and follow these steps:
Call, email or visit your tour operator’s local branch. Explain your concerns clearly and ask what flexibility they can offer.
Check whether you qualify for a full refund, partial refund or credit note. Your eligibility may depend on government travel advice and your booking terms.
Some providers allow customers to switch destinations without heavy fees. If prices differ, you may receive a partial refund or need to pay extra.
In the case of the elderly couple, they contacted Tui. After an initial in-store attempt failed to resolve their concerns, they reached a call centre. The operator offered two options: cancel for a refund or transfer to another destination. They switched their booking to Morocco and received a partial refund because the new holiday cost less.
However, not all travellers received the same flexibility. Some customers reported change fees and limited choices. Policies often vary depending on the booking type and timing.
Before making a final decision, check official government travel advisories. Authorities regularly update guidance on health risks, safety conditions and entry requirements.
If the government does not advise against travel, tour operators may not be obligated to offer full refunds. That is why checking reliable sources is essential before cancelling.
Travel insurance plays a key role when illness disrupts holiday plans. If you cancel because of medical advice, you may need:
If you fall sick before departure, contact your insurer immediately to begin the claim process.
Shigella is a bacterial infection that affects the digestive system. It spreads through contaminated food, water or poor hygiene. Symptoms often include:
While many people recover within a few days, the illness can be more severe in older adults and people with weakened immune systems. This explains why some travellers feel uneasy about visiting areas where cases have been reported.
If you still want a holiday but feel unsure about Cape Verde, consider switching destinations. Many operators allow amendments, sometimes with a fee or price adjustment.
Changing to a different country can provide peace of mind without losing your entire holiday budget. Always compare the new destination’s cost and safety conditions before confirming changes.
