Concerns Raised After Holidaymakers Suffer Gastric Symptoms At Portuguese Resort

British holidaymakers affected by illness following their stays at the Holiday Village Algarve resort have spoken for the first time of the serious gastric symptoms they suffered.

The Daily Mail reports that around 30 people are believed to have suffered symptoms including sickness, diarrhoea and stomach cramps during stays at the First Choice hotel in Portugal in May of this year.

Among those affected were the Andrews family from Derby, with two-year-old Austin being hospitalised on their return to the UK and ultimately being diagnosed with gastroenteritis.

Sarah Andrews, his mother, told the newspaper: “It was awful. It was horrible to see my two-year-old in such a lot of pain. It was heart-breaking.”

First Choice said in a statement that it was sorry to hear of the issues and that it continues to audit “all the resorts to which we operate to ensure that health, hygiene and comfort levels are maintained in line with industry standards”.

Expert Opinion

It is concerning to hear about the experiences that these holidaymakers have experienced. Through our work on behalf of thousands of holidaymakers who have fallen ill at hotels and resorts in the UK and abroad, we have seen first-hand the significant impact this can have on so many lives. <br/> <br/>"As a result, such issues should not be underestimated and it is vital that tour operators continue to take steps, if not already done so, to determine the cause of such illness outbreaks – with the ultimate aim of preventing such incidents from emerging again in the future. <br/> <br/>"Anyone heading on holiday deserves to be able to enjoy a relaxing break and not have any concerns regarding their safety. It is important that lessons are learned so standards can be improved." Suki Chhokar - Partner