KOZHIKODE: There are indications that more people have contracted Shigella disease in Kottamparambu Mundikkalthazhathu. Following the death of a child, 30 people were diagnosed with the disease at a camp organized by the health department. But the district medical officer V Jayasree said there was nothing to worry about. She said that if the symptoms are not treated immediately, it can lead to death.

If you have bloody stools, seek medical attention. Water samples from the area have been collected and sent for testing. A team led by the District Surveillance Officer visited the site and assessed the preventive measures. Health workers super chlorinated wells in the area. Home visits and awareness programs were also conducted. ORS packets were provided to the anganwadis. The DMO said those with diarrhea and other symptoms should inform health workers.

Symptoms of Shigella

Diarrhea, fever, abdominal pain, vomiting, fatigue, bloody stools. Shigella bacteria are one of the main causes of diarrhea-related diseases. The disease mainly affects the intestines. If infected, there will be blood along with the stool. The disease is transmitted through contaminated water and contaminated food. Infected children under the age of five are at higher risk of death if the symptoms become severe. If not taken care of, the disease can spread quickly. The disease can be spread by direct or indirect contact with the patient's excrement. Symptoms last for two to seven days. Sometimes the symptoms can last even after that while people won't have symptoms at all. Seek medical attention for fever, bloody stools, dehydration and fatigue.

Preventive measures

• Drink only boiled water
• Wash hands with soap and water before meals and after defecation
• Maintain personal hygiene.
• Avoid open defecation
• Properly dispose of baby diapers
• People with symptoms should not cook food
• Avoid stale foods and cover food items
• Do not interact with children with diarrhea
• Disinfect toilets and bathrooms
• Avoid direct contact with the patient
• Use fruits and vegetables only after washing
• People with symptoms should consume ORS solution, salted porridge water and tender coconut water.
• Chlorinate drinking water sources.