Safety first: How to keep kids safe from waterborne bacteria this Summer

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: While various infectious diseases often emerge with the onset of summer, the current challenge is Shigella. Recently, a Shigella outbreak in Peruvayal Panchayat, Kozhikode, tragically claimed the life of a three-and-a-half-year-old girl and infected several others.

Shigella bacteria enter the body through contaminated water and unhygienic food. Consuming unsanitary soft drinks or undercooked food can lead to infection. Health experts emphasise that children under the age of five require special attention; their immune systems are still developing, and they are more likely to put their fingers in their mouths.

While the disease is often less severe in adults, they can still transmit the bacteria—particularly if an infected person prepares food for others. While stomach acid typically destroys many invading pathogens, Shigella is particularly dangerous because it has the ability to survive the body's acidic environment.

Warning Sign: Blood in Stool

Symptoms of Shigella, including fever and diarrhea, usually appear within three days of infection. In some cases, the bacteria attack the large intestine, causing internal wounds. If you notice blood in the stool, seek immediate medical attention to prevent serious intestinal damage.

Eliminating the Bacteria

If infected, follow these steps:

• Hydration: Drink ORS (Oral Rehydration Salts) to prevent dehydration.
• Medication: Take zinc tablets or prescribed antibiotics only as directed by a doctor.
• Pediatric Care: Since young children may experience high fevers or symptoms similar to epilepsy (febrile seizures), they require constant monitoring.

Preventive Measures

• Hand Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before eating and after using the toilet.
• Diaper Safety: Dispose of diapers safely and wash your hands immediately after changing them.
• Safe Water: Drink only boiled water.
• Food Safety: Those with symptoms must not prepare food for others.
• Protection: Keep food covered and ensure flies cannot come into contact with it.

Shigella can lead to severe complications in children, including the destruction of red blood cells and potential kidney failure. Do not delay seeking medical advice if a child develops a fever and diarrhoea.

— Dr. Rajeev Jayadevan

Convenor, IMA Research Cell