An eighth Brit died after a getaway to Cape Verde amid a shigella outbreak, it is thought. A 71-year-old retired civil servant suffered a heart attack during a flight home, it has been reported. It is believed her hotel room had no water to shower or flush toilets. A post-mortem concluded that she probably suffered dehydration and fever due to the bacterial illness, which increased demand on her enlarged heart.

An eighth British citizen has tragically passed away following a trip to Cape Verde, where a shigella outbreak is suspected to have occurred. Reports indicate that the 71-year-old retired civil servant suffered a heart attack during her return flight. It appears that her hotel accommodations lacked essential water facilities, preventing her from showering or flushing toilets. A post-mortem examination suggested that she experienced dehydration and fever as a result of the bacterial infection, placing additional strain on her already enlarged heart.

The woman, hailing from Berkshire, died in 2024. Her family has come forward to share their story upon learning of other similar incidents.

Among those who succumbed to severe gastric illnesses on the islands located off the western coast of Africa were Elena Walsh, 64, from Birmingham; Mark Ashley, 55, from Bedfordshire; Karen Pooley, 64, from Gloucestershire; and a 56-year-old man. All these individuals lost their lives last year after contracting the illness.

In February, it was reported that the law firm Irwin Mitchell is representing the families of six deceased individuals and over 1,500 others who fell ill following their visits to Cape Verde.

TUI told The Sun health and safety is its priority.

It is understood that researchers collected 156 samples from drinking water, fresh food, and food preparation surfaces and irrigation systems.

In response, TUI assured The Sun that health and safety remain their utmost priority.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) recorded 137 cases of shigella between October and December. About 80% of patients recently went to Cape Verde.

The Government says on its website: “The UK Health Security Agency is investigating an increase in reports of Shigella sonnei and Salmonella infection in travellers returning from Cape Verde.

“If you have an underlying health condition, speak to a healthcare professional before travelling.”

In February, Dr Gauri Godbole, Deputy Director for Gastrointestinal Infections, Food Safety and One Health at UKHSA, said: “Taking a few simple precautions against traveller’s diarrhoea and food poisoning can make all the difference.

“The best way to avoid gastrointestinal infections, including Shigella and Salmonella, or passing them to others, is simply by washing your hands regularly and thoroughly with soap and water or alcohol gel – particularly after using the toilet, changing nappies, and before eating or preparing food.

“Most episodes of traveller’s diarrhoea are short-lived, lasting for a few days. During an episode of diarrhoea and vomiting, it is important to prevent dehydration particularly for young children, pregnant women, elderly people, and those with pre-existing illnesses as they can develop complications.

“Continue to hydrate yourself with plenty of fluids and consider purchasing sachets of oral rehydration salt before travelling. If symptoms worsen or you have underlying medical conditions, please seek advice from your GP or pharmacy.”