Shigella infection fear in Kerala

Context

• Heath authorities are on high alert after suspected cases of Shigella infection were identified during a special medical camp in Kerala.

What is Shigella infection?

• Shigella infection is an intestinal infection caused by Shigella becteria.
• Shigellosis is one of the leading causes of death among children aged under five, with bloody diarrhea.

What are the symtoms?

• The main symptoms include diarrhoea, often with traces of blood and mucus in the stool, stomach pain and fever.
• The symptoms may appear within seven days after exposure.

How does it spread?

• Drinking water
• Contaminated food