£15,000 awarded for bacterial infection on holiday

A woman aged 57 received £15,000 compensation for an acute campylobacter infection contracted while on holiday four years earlier.

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Holiday illness compensation claims

Injury details

The claimant became ill on a package holiday organised by the defendant. Three days before the end of the holiday she developed an acute gastrointestinal infection.

The acute symptoms lasted for three days. During this time the lady felt very ill and was dehydrated from the illness. On one occasion when visiting the bathroom she fainted as a result. She injured her face and knee.

After returning to the United Kingdom, the claimant was off work for six weeks.

Her knee and face suffered bruising and soft tissue injuries. The facial injuries recovered within three weeks. Her knee injuries took two months to recover.

The woman had existing depression. This was worsened as a result of her symptoms. She developed post-infective irritable bowel syndrome. The symptoms of this continued over the next four years gradually improving but still being present at the time of settlement.

The claimant had to change the food she ate to cater for the condition. She felt embarrassed in company on occasion due to her symptoms. She felt unable to socialise as she had before and needed medication.

Allegation

It was alleged the defendant was negligent in that they failed to provide a safe environment for the holiday.

The lack of care caused the bacterial infection and consequent problems.

The claimant had suffered a loss of enjoyment of her holiday as well as suffering severe symptoms for a period of weeks after returning.

The post-infective irritable bowel syndrome would have a permanent effect. The claimant would need to modify her lifestyle and take medication for the rest of her life.

Conclusion and settlement

Liability was not admitted and the matter progressed to a Court hearing.

Compensation of £15,000 was accepted by way of a Court award.

The entire award was attributed to "pain, suffering and loss of amenity" to include loss of enjoyment of the holiday.