Couple shares horrifying experience among nearly 1,000 tourists who fell ill during 5-star vacation to island.
In recent years, a troubling trend has emerged in Cape Verde.
Almost 1,000 tourists have reported serious gastric illnesses after their vacations on the island. This alarming situation raises questions about health and safety standards at popular resorts.
Rise in illness cases
Over the past three years, 926 holidaymakers have fallen ill while visiting Cape Verde.
Many of these cases required hospitalization due to severe symptoms.
Victims of these illnesses are demanding answers and seeking justice.
Serious injury lawyer Jatinder Paul from Irwin Mitchell noted the concerning number of clients reporting similar issues.
He stated, “The sheer volume of clients we’re continuing to see coming forward is incredibly concerning.” Paul insists that these illnesses are not isolated incidents.
He warned that gastric illnesses can lead to long-term health issues or even fatalities.
A couple fell ill during their 5-star vacation on the island.
Customer service assistant Cordelia Plummer fell ill a week after arriving in Cape Verde.
She experienced severe symptoms, including diarrhea and vomiting. After returning to the UK, a GP suspected her illness might be caused by shigella.
Cordelia, 56, and her partner Ian Waller, also 56, fell ill during their stay at the Riu Cabo Verde hotel.
Additionally, they had booked their holiday through TUI, spending nearly $4,000 for a two-week stay in July.
Days after Cordelia’s symptoms began, Ian experienced the same issues.
His condition persisted until he returned home, and he continues to suffer from changes in bowel habits.
Conversations with other hotel guests revealed they experienced similar symptoms.
Disappointing food standards
Upon returning home, Cordelia and Ian discovered negative online reviews from other travelers.
Many guests complained about the food quality, describing it as uncovered and lukewarm.
They also reported seeing cockroaches in the restaurant, particularly near the desserts.
Cordelia recounted her experience, saying, “What started as headaches and a feeling of nausea became the worst sickness and diarrhea I’ve ever known.”
She added, “The cockroaches were also disgusting. When we pointed this out, a staff member picked one up in a napkin and walked toward the kitchen with it.”
The couple expressed their shock at the number of other travelers who fell ill during their stay.
“Had we seen these reviews beforehand, we’d never have booked the holiday,” Cordelia stated.
They are determined to know what caused their illnesses and what measures are being taken to prevent similar occurrences.
The significant number of tourists suffering from gastric illnesses in Cape Verde highlights a serious public health issue.
This situation calls for urgent attention to improve food safety and hygiene standards at hotels.
Cordelia and Ian’s experiences serve as a warning for future travelers.
They emphasize the need for awareness and caution when choosing holiday destinations.