Holidaymaker Treated In Isolation Following Illness At ClubHotel Riu Negril

A woman who was placed in isolation in hospital for six days after she developed salmonella during a stay at a Jamaican holiday resort earlier this year has called on specialist lawyers to help her gain justice regarding her illness ‘nightmare’.

Joan Birch, 56, from Prenton, Wirral, developed symptoms including severe diarrhoea and vomiting several days into her two-week all-inclusive stay at the ClubHotel Riu Negril in September, which was booked through TUI UK Ltd trading as Thomson (TUI).

The illness problems proved so severe that upon her return to the UK she was immediately admitted to Arrowe Park Hospital and placed in isolation in a private room while she was treated with medication and IV drips.

Several months on from the holiday, and with the illness problems still persisting, Joan has now formally instructed specialist lawyers in Irwin Mitchell’s International Personal Injury team to investigate the cause of the salmonella and help her gain answers and justice in relation to her ordeal.

Jennifer Downing, the legal expert at Irwin Mitchell who is representing Joan, said: 

Expert Opinion

“This is an extremely worrying case which highlights the huge consequences that gastric illnesses such as salmonella can have on victims.

“Through our work we have sadly seen a number of cases in which such problems have had a lasting impact on those affected, often leaving them with long-term health issues from which they may never fully recover.

“With this in mind, we have already begun our investigations into our client’s case and are determined to ensure she is able to get the answers she deserves regarding the problems which ruined the vast majority of her break. If you have also visited this resort and encountered any problems we would welcome hearing from you to assist with our enquiries." Jennifer Downing - Solicitor

Joan’s stay at the ClubHotel Riu Negril with her husband began on September 13th, but several days into the holiday her symptoms started to develop.

Joan recalled: “The illness left me in a really bad way and it was hugely frustrating to know we had spent so much money on the break yet neither I nor my husband got a chance to enjoy it fully. I need medication for my heart and other issues so the fact I was unable to keep that down was also hugely worrying.

“When we got back to the UK the symptoms were ongoing, so I went to my GP and was admitted to hospital straightaway. Having to be treated in isolation was hugely concerning and I still can’t believe that this has happened to me. It all feels like a nightmare.

“I have travelled with Thomson on many occasions in the past and have also been to this hotel three times, yet there is no way that I would go back again. I am furious by what I have been through and want answers regarding everything that has happened.

“While nothing will change my experience, I hope that steps can be taken to ensure no one else will suffer like I have in the future.”

Read more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in holiday illness cases.