Shigella in Cape Verde Hotels Linked to Irrigation Water
Cape Verdean health officials have identified the source of a lingering gastrointestinal health concern: Shigella bacteria has been detected in the irrigation water used for fresh produce supplied to the country’s major tourist hotels.
Investigation Points to Irrigation Water
Hélio Rocha, administrator of the National Institute of Public Health (INSP), announced the findings on Wednesday following a comprehensive investigation on the islands of Sal and Boa Vista. After analyzing 156 samples—including drinking water, food surfaces, and clinical specimens—investigators found that while drinking water remained safe and uncontaminated, the irrigation water used for fresh vegetables and fruits tested positive for the bacteria.
Specifically, the investigation identified Shigella sonnei, a strain most commonly found in Europe. “This raises the hypothesis that this particular species was introduced into Cape Verde from abroad,” Rocha explained, noting that further analysis is underway to confirm the origin.
European Health Warnings
The announcement follows a “moderate risk” warning issued by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) for travelers visiting Santa Maria on the island of Sal. According to the ECDC, more than 1,000 confirmed or probable cases of gastrointestinal infection linked to Cape Verde have been reported since September 2022.
Despite the high number of historic cases, Rocha stated that there is currently no active outbreak. “We are seeing a sporadic number of cases that remain within expected levels for this period,” he said, adding that health authorities are in constant communication with European epidemiological services.
Protecting Tourists and Locals Alike
In response to the findings, Cape Verde has issued strict directives to the hospitality sector. Hotels have been ordered to “reinforce disinfection processes” for all fresh produce throughout the production, import, and distribution chains. Authorities are also increasing laboratory surveillance to prevent further contamination.
While the international focus has been on tourism, Rocha emphasized that the safety of Cape Verdean citizens is equally a priority. “We have some involvement in fresh produce that is likely consumed by the local population as well,” he noted. “While the focus is on hotels due to tourism, we must remain vigilant in protecting our residents.”
Economic Stakes
The Tourism Institute of Cape Verde (ITCV) issued a separate statement reaffirming the nation’s status as a safe and growing travel destination. The findings are high-stakes for the island nation; Cape Verde’s economy is heavily reliant on tourism, with the majority of its visitors arriving from Europe to stay at resorts on Sal and Boa Vista.
Image: Pexels – Taryn Elliott
