Shigella Infection (Shigellosis): Symptoms, Transmission, and Prevention

Understanding Shigellosis

Shigella bacteria cause shigellosis, an intestinal infection marked by:

• Diarrhea (often bloody)
• Fever
• Nausea, vomiting
• Abdominal cramping
• Tenesmus (urgent need to defecate with empty bowels)
• Loss of appetite, fatigue, headaches

Transmission

Fecal-oral route: contaminated food, water, surfaces, or direct person-to-person contact. Common in areas with poor sanitation; outbreaks occur in daycare and institutional settings.

Treatment

• Antibiotics (e.g., azithromycin, ciprofloxacin) for severe cases or high-risk groups.
• Supportive care: hydration, electrolyte replacement.
• Most recover in days to weeks; complications include dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, malnutrition.

Prevention

• Frequent handwashing with soap
• Safe water and food handling
• Avoiding contact with infected individuals