More than 1,700 Brits who fell ill in Cape Verde join action against Tui
Over 1,700 British Travelers File Lawsuits Against Tui After Cape Verde Illnesses
Legal representatives from Irwin Mitchell have confirmed that more than 1,700 individuals have joined claims against Tui, the travel firm, following illnesses contracted during holidays in Cape Verde. These cases include both serious health complications and fatalities, with lawyers now estimating at least eight Britons have died since 2023 after trips to the island nation.
Health Alerts and Ongoing Investigations
In February, UK health officials issued a warning about potential risks for travelers visiting Cape Verde, citing outbreaks of stomach bugs. Tui has acknowledged the claims but stated it cannot comment further until it obtains the complete health report from the country, which remains unpublished. The company is currently examining the situation to determine its liability.
Medical Conditions and Evidence Gathered
Irwin Mitchell solicitors reported that clients have been diagnosed with bacterial infections like E. coli, salmonella, and shigella, as well as parasitic illnesses such as cryptosporidium. These cases involve children as young as six months old, highlighting the widespread impact. Footage reviewed by the BBC showed potential health hazards, including undercooked food, fly-infested buffets, and mold in accommodations.
Tragic Cases and Family Accounts
Elena Walsh, a 64-year-old from Birmingham, fell ill during a Tui-arranged holiday at the RIU Cabo Verde resort in August 2023. Her son Sean described how his mother’s condition worsened rapidly, leading to her death two days later. “We were with her all night hoping she’d recover, but she just kept getting worse,” Sean told BBC Breakfast.
“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,” said Liz Pooley, Karen’s daughter, who also lost her mother after a trip to Cape Verde. Karen Pooley, 64, died from sepsis and multi-organ failure following a two-week Tui holiday. She had slipped on water from a fridge, fracturing her leg, while seeking medical help.
Hotel Claims and Legal Expectations
RIU Hotels and Resorts, which operates the Cape Verde resorts, stated its commitment to health and safety, citing international certifications. However, the legal team emphasized that Tui had a duty to ensure holidays were free from illness risks. They warned that if settlements cannot be reached, the High Court may rule on damages totaling millions of pounds.
Lawyers previously identified six deaths linked to Cape Verde trips since January 2023, but they now believe the number has increased to eight. The ongoing cases against Tui continue to grow, with more individuals reporting severe health issues during their stays.