Increased risk of illness in Cape Verde – the most important answers

The Cape Verde Islands have become an increasingly popular destination for Swiss travelers, particularly during the winter months. New flight connections, expanded hotel offerings, and the appealing mix of beaches, nature, and culture have led to a noticeable rise in bookings.

Around the winter holiday period, however, British health authorities issued a warning after registering more gastrointestinal illnesses among travelers returning from Cape Verde, as reported by «Travel Weekly». The resorts of Santa Maria and Boa Vista were especially affected, with numerous cases of Shigella and Salmonella infections linked to hotel stays.

Does traveling to Cape Verde currently carry a higher health risk, and how can visitors avoid spending their dream vacation feeling unwell? «Travelnews» answers the four key questions.

Are gastrointestinal illnesses also increasing among Swiss travelers?

According to the Center for Travel Medicine at the University of Zurich, no documented cases have been reported among Swiss travelers so far. Healthy Travel, Switzerland’s expert committee for travel medicine, likewise sees no evidence of increased illness among people returning from Cape Verde.

International data paints a broader picture, however. Rising numbers of Shigella and Salmonella infections have been reported not only in the United Kingdom but also among travelers from other countries. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has recorded higher case numbers in several European nations, including the Netherlands, Sweden, and France. At present, specialists emphasize that this trend cannot be directly applied to Switzerland, the Center for Travel Medicine noted.

How high is the health risk for travelers to Cape Verde?

From a medical and preventive standpoint, the Center for Travel Medicine currently classifies the risk as moderate, though slightly above the usual level. Increased awareness and consistent hygiene measures are recommended, but experts stress that the situation does not constitute an exceptional event.

Travel medicine specialists at the University of Zurich describe the rise in cases as a travel-associated signal rather than a confirmed nationwide outbreak. In practical terms, this means that as visitor numbers grow, more infections may naturally be detected among returning travelers. Nevertheless, reported figures are currently higher than typical seasonal levels.

Particular caution is advised for vulnerable groups, including older adults, pregnant women, young children, and individuals with weakened immune systems, as bacterial diarrheal illnesses can be more severe for them.

What precautions should travelers take?

The Center for Travel Medicine recommends strict attention to food, water, and hand hygiene when traveling to tropical destinations. As gastrointestinal infections are usually transmitted through contaminated food or water, the classic rule still applies: Cook it, boil it, peel it — or leave it.

Whenever possible, travelers should choose freshly prepared hot meals and avoid raw foods. Dairy products such as ice cream or yogurt are safest when industrially packaged. Pre-cut fruit, salads, and buffet dishes kept warm for long periods should be avoided.

Fruit should ideally be peeled and, if necessary, washed with bottled water. Only sealed bottled or boiled water should be used for drinking and brushing teeth, and ice cubes are best avoided. Regular handwashing or disinfecting remains one of the most effective ways to reduce infection risk.

When should affected travelers seek medical advice?

Anyone who develops sudden gastrointestinal symptoms while traveling should seek medical advice promptly, especially if the condition worsens quickly. Medical consultation is also recommended after returning home if symptoms persist or recur.

Warning signs of a more serious infection include fever, blood in the stool, severe abdominal cramps, or persistent vomiting. Young children, pregnant women, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals should consult a doctor even with mild symptoms.

In less severe cases, maintaining hydration is crucial. Electrolyte solutions are ideal, but water or tea mixed with sugar and salt can also help compensate for fluid loss. Small amounts of banana or orange juice may support electrolyte balance.