Shigella in state again; Four-year-old girl diagnosed with disease in Kottayam

KOTTAYAM: Shigella has been confirmed in the state again. The disease was confirmed on four-year-old girl in Kottayam. She is undergoing treatment in a private hospital.

Shigellosis is caused by bacteria belonging to the Shigella genus. The main symptom of this disease is diarrhoea. However, it is more serious than ordinary diarrhoea. Shigellosis is transmitted through the use of contaminated water and spoiled food, the use of unwashed fruits and vegetables, close contact with Shigella-infected people, and eating food prepared by infected people. Everyone should avoid eating food cooked in unsanitary conditions during this rainy season.

If the symptoms of the disease reach a serious stage, the risk of death is higher in children under the age of five and those with weakened immune systems. If not careful enough, Shigella can spread very quickly. The disease can spread easily through direct or indirect contact with the faeces of patients.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Shigella disease are diarrhoea, fever, abdominal pain, vomiting, fatigue, and bloody stools. Since Shigella bacteria mainly affect the intestines, blood may also be excreted during diarrhoea. Symptoms appear for two to seven days. In some cases, symptoms may last longer. In some cases, symptoms may not appear at all.