Shigellosis

Shigellosis Latest News

Recently, an outbreak of shigellosis, or shigella infection has been reported in Kerala.

About Shigellosis

• It is an infection caused by the Shigella bacteria.
• It is highly contagious, causes acute diarrhoea, and can affect anyone, but children under five are particularly susceptible.
• It is one of the leading bacterial causes of diarrhoea worldwide.
• Humans are the only natural reservoir of the Shigella bacteria.
• The disease may be more severe in young children, older adults, immune-compromised individuals or malnourished persons.
• Transmission
  • The infection is transmitted through direct, close contact with infected individuals, through the faecal-oral route and through sexual contact.
  • It can also spread through contaminated food and water or contact with faeces of an infected person.
• Symptoms

• • The most common symptoms is diarrhoea, which can be bloody, contain mucus and last for a prolonged period of three days or more.
  • Other symptoms include stomach cramps, vomiting, fever and feeling the need to pass stool even when the bowels are empty.
• Treatment: It is typically self-limiting, which means in most mild cases.
  • Medicines, including antibiotics may be prescribed for a serious infection.

Source: TH

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