Eight more cases of Shigella confirmed in Kerala; 180 cases reported this month

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Eight more people have tested positive for Shigella infection in Kerala. Three cases were reported from Kozhikode, two from Wayanad, and one each from Thrissur and Malappuram districts. A total of 180 Shigella cases and six deaths have been reported in the state so far in June. This year, 256 people have been diagnosed with Shigella infection in Kerala.

Shigellosis is an intestinal infection caused by Shigella bacteria. Diarrhoea is the most common symptom, and the condition can become serious if timely treatment is not provided. The infection can spread through contaminated water and through unhygienic or spoiled food. The disease can also become life-threatening in severe cases. Symptoms usually appear one or two days after coming into contact with an infected person, though in some cases they may appear after a week, according to the Health Department. Eating food prepared by an infected person can also lead to the spread of the infection.

Maintaining personal hygiene and cleanliness in surroundings is the best way to prevent Shigella infection. People should be careful while handling and consuming meat, milk, fish and eggs. Bacteria can survive for longer periods in refrigerated food items. If symptoms appear, people should drink fluids such as salted rice water, lemon water or ORS solution to prevent dehydration. Health officials have advised people to seek medical treatment instead of relying on self-medication.