Lydney woman dies after holiday illness in Cape Verde
Families of six Britons raise concerns over hygiene following Cape Verde trips
Last updated 2nd Feb 2026
Concerns over hygiene standards in Cape Verde resorts have been raised after six Britons, including a woman from Lydney, died following holidays to the island country since 2023.
The most recent cases include Karen Pooley, from Lydney, who passed away in October 2025 after falling seriously ill during a two-week trip to Cape Verde.
Ms Pooley, 64, travelled with a friend to the Riu Funana resort, booking the holiday through Tui. She fell ill with symptoms, including diarrhoea, four days into the holiday.
Her husband, Andy, 62, said she slipped on water leaking from a fridge while walking to the bathroom, which caused her to break her femur. She was taken to a local clinic where her condition worsened.
On 16th October, Ms Pooley was airlifted to Tenerife for urgent care. She passed away in the early hours of 17th October.
Her husband described the family’s devastation at losing her: "We're utterly heartbroken. Karen was the kindest, loveliest person. She was a devoted wife and mum who loved swimming, walking the dog in the Forest of Dean, and volunteered at a local charity shop. She was also a wonderful friend who lit up every room she entered."
He added that communication from the clinic and holiday provider was poor during her illness.
Investigations are ongoing
Irwin Mitchell, the law firm representing the families, said Ms Pooley’s initial death certificate from Cape Verde mentioned multi-organ failure, sepsis, cardio-respiratory arrest, and a fractured left leg as factors.
Lawyers have confirmed they are investigating her death along with five others.
Other deaths linked to Cape Verde holidays
Part-time nurse Elena Walsh, 64, who stayed at Riu Cabo Verde resort, died in August 2025 after contracting gastric illness. Similarly, Mark Ashley, 55, fell ill during his stay at the Riu Palace Santa Maria resort in October 2025. Despite returning to the UK and receiving hospital treatment, he passed away on 12th November.
Since January 2023, two other Britons have reportedly died after falling ill in Cape Verde.
Irwin Mitchell, which is representing the families of the deceased as well as more than 1,500 other affected holidaymakers, has raised criticism over hygiene standards at these resorts and called for action to address reported issues in the area.
Jatinder Paul, a serious injury lawyer at Irwin Mitchell, said: "Understandably, those we represent have serious concerns about hygiene standards in Cape Verde. While nothing can make up for what's happened, we're determined to establish the answers they deserve.
"In the meantime, we call for meaningful and decisive action to get on top of the reported hygiene issues in these resorts. Tour operators are responsible for ensuring the safety of those who have booked all-inclusive package holidays."
Tui, which organised many of the holidays in question, has been contacted for comment.