Kerala has reported 70+ shigella infections and 4 deaths in one week. Total cases since January 2026:146. Worst-hit districts: Kozhikode, Malappuram, Wayanad & Thrissur. Due to the constant movement of people between Kerala and Karnataka, health authorities in Karnataka including Bengaluru have been put on high alert. While there is no immediate cause for panic, strict surveillance is in place.
Let’s understand what is Shigella?
Shigella is a group of bacteria that causes shigellosis, a highly infectious gastrointestinal disease. One of the major concerns with the shigella is that only a small number of bacteria are required to cause illness. The infection spreads through the fecal-oral route, typically when contaminated food, water, hands or surfaces come into contact with the mouth.
Sources of Contamination
Shigella Infection is commonly associated with:
- Contaminated drinking water
- Poor hand hygiene
- Improper food handling practices
- Unwashed fruits & vegetables
- Contaminated food contact surfaces
- Direct contact with infected individuals
The risk of transmission increases in areas with poor sanitation and during periods of heavy rainfall when water contamination becomes more likely.
How Does Shigella Affect the Body?
After entering the body through contaminated food or water, shigella bacteria to the intestines and invade the intestinal lining. The body’s immune response cause inflammation, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal cramps & fever. In severe cases, damage to the intestinal lining may result in bloody diarrhea & significant fluid loss, increasing the risk of dehydration.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms generally appear within 1-3 days of exposure & may include:
- Diarrhoea (Sometimes containing Blood or Mucus)
- Fever
- Stomach Cramps
- Abdominal Pain
- Nausea & Vomiting
- Fatigue & Weakness
- Dehydration
A Pattern of Regulatory Prevention & Control Measures
Health authorities are advising the public to follow strict hygiene & food safety practices including:
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap & clean water (Especially after using the toilet, changing diapers & before cooking & eating).
- Drink only boiled or properly treated safe drinking water. Avoid tap water or water from unknown sources.
- Do not consume raw or undercooked food from unverified places.
- Wash all fruits & vegetables thoroughly before eating.
- If symptoms are present, restrict the interaction with others and gatherings (Can spread the infection).
- Ensure children’s surroundings & toys are regularly cleaned & disinfected.
- Protect food from flies like using fly screens
- Avoid open defecation, use clean & functional toilets.
- Use ORS (Oral Rehydration Salts) immediately to prevent dehydration if diarrhoea begins.
Treatment
Most mild cases of shigellosis can be managed at home by staying hydrated with ORS & Zinc Supplements. For the severe cases, particularly in young children or elderly patients doctors may prescribe targeted antibiotics. The main tip is to hydrate ourselves, follow safe food practices- Clean, Separate, Cook and Chill.
Key Highlights
- Karnataka on alert following Shigella outbreak in Kerala
- Shigella causes a highly contagious intestinal infection called Shigellosis
- Spreads through contaminated food, water, and poor hygiene practices
- Symptoms include diarrhoea, fever, stomach cramps, nausea, and dehydration
- Young children and elderly individuals are most vulnerable
- Good hygiene, safe water, and proper food handling are critical preventive measures
- Health authorities urge early medical attention for suspected cases
- Outbreak highlights the importance of food safety and sanitation in disease prevention
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