Shigella outbreak in Kerala: 21 children test positive amid rising cases

KALPETTA: Health authorities in Kerala are closely monitoring a rise in Shigella cases in Wayanad district after 21 children tested positive for the bacterial infection. The latest cases were confirmed in two students from Mar Baselios School, adding to the growing number of infections reported recently.

A total of 25 children are currently admitted to the hospital. Out of these, 21 cases have been formally confirmed, while four other children remain under close observation after exhibiting symptoms. Health department records indicate a wider trend, showing that 339 children have sought treatment for similar gastrointestinal symptoms since the school reopened for the new academic term.

Prompted by the cluster of cases, Health Minister K. Muraleedharan announced his decision to visit Wayanad tomorrow to personally review the ongoing containment strategies and healthcare measures. The minister sought to reassure the public, clarifying that all the children currently undergoing treatment are over the age of eight. He explained that Shigella generally becomes critical only when it affects children under the age of five. Consequently, officials have stated there is no immediate reason for panic, and the health department maintains that the situation is firmly under control.