Two toddlers diagnose with Shigella in Kozhikode; Health Department on high alert

KOZHIKODE: Two cases of Shigella bacteria infection have been confirmed in Perumanna, Kozhikode, prompting local authorities and the health department to initiate immediate preventive measures. The patients, aged two and three, hail from the Parakkandam and Puthiyottil areas of the Perumanna Panchayat. Upon exhibiting symptoms, the toddlers were initially rushed to the Perumanna Health Centre for primary care. They were subsequently transferred to the Kozhikode Government Medical College Hospital for specialised management. Attending doctors have confirmed that both children are currently stable and responding well to treatment.

The fresh cases have sparked concern in the district, recalling a previous severe outbreak of Shigella in the neighbouring Peruvayal Grama Panchayat, which had resulted in the tragic death of a child. In response to the new diagnoses, the local Panchayat and regional health officials have deployed teams to conduct rigorous sanitation drives, water chlorination, and awareness campaigns to prevent a wider outbreak.