Health authorities have issued an urgent alert to British holidaymakers following a dramatic rise in unpleasant infections. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) updated its travel guidance today after the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) launched an investigation into a sharp increase in Shigella sonnei and Salmonella cases amongst returning travellers.

Figures reveal that since October 1 2025, there have been 158 confirmed cases of Shigella. Of these, 112 individuals reported recent travel to Cape Verde, with most cases associated with the popular Santa Maria and Boa Vista regions.

During the same timeframe, 43 cases of Salmonella have been confirmed across England, Scotland, and Wales, with 32 of these patients having recently visited the islands.

The Foreign Office update states: “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.”

Shigella (also known as bacillary dysentery) is a highly contagious infection of the gut. While most individuals recover within a week, it can be extremely unpleasant, causing severe diarrhoea, stomach cramps and fever.

Salmonella infections typically develop between 12 and 72 hours after exposure, leading to nausea, vomiting, and fever. While the majority of holidaymakers will recover, the UKHSA has cautioned that particular groups face an elevated risk of complications, including sepsis.

These include children under the age of five, pregnant women and older adults, as well as those with weakened immune systems or complex medical conditions.

Shigella spreads through contact with contaminated faeces, either person-to-person or via contaminated food, water, or surfaces.

Salmonella is likewise transmitted through unsafe food and water. Travellers are being urged to maintain “good food and water hygiene” at all times.

This includes regular handwashing and exercising caution about where you eat and drink.