UPSC Prelims Current Affairs for 10 November 2026

Shigellosis Latest News

Following confirmation about the outbreak of Shigella infection in Keralam's Kozhikode and Malappuram districts, health authorities have stepped up preventive measures to prevent further spread of the infection.

About Shigellosis

• It is a highly contagious bacterial diarrhoeal disease caused by shigella.
• It is one of the leading bacterial causes of diarrhoea worldwide.
• Anyone can get Shigella. Globally, the majority of cases occur in children under 5. 

Shigellosis Transmission

• Humans are the only natural reservoir of the Shigella bacteria.
• The infection is transmitted through direct, close contact with infected individuals and through sexual contact.
• It can also spread through contaminated food and water or contact with faeces of an infected person.
• Outbreaks of shigellosis are linked to poor sanitation, contaminated food and water, and crowded living conditions. 

Shigellosis Symptoms

• Symptoms usually start 1–2 days after infection and last 7 days. 
• Shigellosis commonly causes diarrhea. This can be watery or bloody. It might also contain mucus or pus. Other symptoms include:
  • Fever
  • Stomach pain and cramps
  • Vomiting
• This combination of symptoms is also called bacillary dysentery.
• You can also have a Shigella infection without symptoms. Even then, you can still be contagious.
• The disease may be more severe in young children, older adults, immune-compromised individuals or malnourished persons.

Shigellosis Treatment

• Most Shigella infections will go away without treatment. 
• Medicines, including antibiotics, may be prescribed for a serious infection.

News: ETVB