Shigella death reported in Malappuram; woman who died after severe diarrhoea tests positive for infection

MALAPPURAM: A 59-year-old woman who died in Malappuram after severe diarrhoea has tested positive for Shigella infection. The deceased has been identified as Sarojini, a native of Keezhattur. She died last Tuesday while undergoing treatment at Kozhikode Medical College Hospital. Sarojini was first admitted to Manjeri Medical College Hospital on Monday after suffering from severe diarrhoea. As her condition became critical, she was later shifted to Kozhikode Medical College Hospital. Detailed tests conducted after her death confirmed that she had been infected with Shigella.

Meanwhile, the Health Department said that 18 new Shigella cases were reported in the state on Friday alone. On the previous day, three children in Thiruvananthapuram also tested positive for the infection. The cases were reported from Thonnakkal, Puthenthope, and Chackai. Officials said the children are receiving treatment at a private hospital and their condition is satisfactory.

So far, Shigella cases have been reported in the districts of Wayanad, Kollam, Thiruvananthapuram, and Malappuram. Following the reported cases, the Health Department has intensified surveillance and preventive measures across affected areas.