Cape Verde Illness Solicitors
Our specialist international illness solicitors are currently investigating more than 1700 cases of holiday-related illnesses and deaths linked to infections contracted in Cape Verde, many of which occurred at hotels and resorts operated by TUI.
Since 2022, a significant number of cases involving E. coli, salmonella and the bacterial infection shigella have been confirmed, with children as young as six-months-old among those affected.
We are committed to helping those impacted secure answers, accountability and access to the support and compensation they may be entitled to.
How we're supporting holidaymakers affected by illness in Cape Verde
Our international illness team is representing a growing number of UK holidaymakers who suffered serious illness after travelling to Cape Verde, with many cases linked to stays at hotels and resorts operated by TUI.
Following extensive investigations, we have launched High Court proceedings on behalf of hundreds of affected holidaymakers, many of whom fell ill during or shortly after holidays taken between 2022 and 2025. We are currently investigating more than 1700 cases, including claims involving long‑term health complications and, in the most serious circumstances, fatalities.
Clients have reported contracting severe gastric illnesses, including E. coli, salmonella, shigella, and parasitic infections such as cryptosporidium, with many requiring hospital treatment either abroad or after returning to the UK. Those affected include children as young as six-months-old.
It is alleged that the illnesses may be linked to poor hygiene standards and food safety failings, and that TUI breached its legal duties by failing to protect holidaymakers from illness and by not ensuring that hotel and swimming pool facilities were maintained to reasonable standards of cleanliness.
Jatinder Paul, the lawyer supporting the holidaymakers, said:
"Many of our clients for whom we’ve issued legal proceedings on behalf of continue to suffer from debilitating symptoms linked to their illness. While it’s too late for those we represent in terms of their holiday being ruined by such illness, we’re determined to provide them with the answers they deserve and where appropriate access to ongoing support and treatment they may require."
If you or a family member became ill while on holiday in Cape Verde, our international illness team may be able to help. Contact us for a confidential discussion about your situation and to find out how we can support you.
Meet a specialist from our team
Our market leading team will help you understand your rights, secure the compensation you’re owed, and access vital support – from rehabilitation to long-term care.
Speak to a Specialist
We are here to help you understand your rights and the support you need. Complete our enquiry form and one of our experts will contact you by the next working day.
Alternatively, you can call us now.
Our opening hours are Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm (Excluding Public Holidays).
0800 0232 233
Hear from the people we’ve helped
It can help to know you’re not alone. Hear from people who were once in the same situation as you and turned to Irwin Mitchell for guidance.
"It’s so easy to want to give up when you’ve already been through so much, but you have to make an effort to stand up for yourself. It’s so simple, just one phone call where you have a chat and answer a few questions – that’s all it takes."
Nicky
Cape Verde group claim client
“All clear.” The words Nicky had been waiting to hear when her husband, Darren finished his cancer treatment in 2022. They booked a dream holiday to Cape Verde to celebrate, but sadly the trip left her with health conditions that continue to impact her life years later.
Read more about our Cape Verde group claim
- Shigella in Cape Verde: Expert lawyers supporting UK holidaymakers struck down by illness issue key advice
- More Than 800 UK Holidaymakers Launch High Court Legal Action After Being Struck Down By Severe Illness Linked To Cape Verde
- Lawyers Fear New Illness Outbreak At Five-Star Riu Palace Santa Maria Resort In Cape Verde Affecting 82 More UK Holidaymakers
- Bradford Family Instruct Lawyers After Suffering Illness At Riu Funana Hotel In Cape Verde
- Families Instruct Lawyers After Suffering Gastric Illness At Riu Cabo Verde Hotel In Cape Verde
- Group of Holidaymakers Instruct Lawyers After Being Struck Down By Gastric Illness In Cape Verde
In the press:
- Over 800 British tourists sue TUI after severe illnesses at Cape Verde luxury resorts (The Mirror)
- Is it safe to visit Cape Verde? Everything to know after holiday illness claims (The Times)
- Tui holidays 'went from dream trips to disaster' (The Telegraph)
- Tourists take legal action over resort sickness bug (BBC News)
Frequently Asked Questions
The hotels and the numbers who Irwin Mitchell represent in the High Court are:
- Riu Palace Boavista: 57 holidaymakers
- Riu Palace Santa Maria: 300 tourists
- Riu Funana – 183 holidaymakers
- Riu Cabo Verde: 105 tourists
- Riu Touareg: 25 holidaymakers
- Melia Dunas – 70 holidaymakers
- Sol Dunas, now called TUI Suneo Dunas – 64 holidaymakers
- TUI Blue Cabo Verde – 32 tourists
What you need to know about working with us
These are our promises to you:- 01Clear legal guidance
You will always get straightforward, honest advice, with regular updates to keep you clear on the way forward.
- 02Specialist knowledge
A wide-ranging team of trusted specialists who understand what it takes to protect your future, your family or your business.
- 03Your needs first
Whether you’re navigating complex personal situations or business decisions, we take the time to understand your world and what’s at stake.
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