Summary about Disease
Shigellosis is an infectious disease caused by a group of bacteria called Shigella. It causes diarrhea, fever, stomach pain, and a frequent urge to pass stool (even when the bowels are empty). Shigellosis is very contagious and is spread through contact with infected stool.
Symptoms
Diarrhea (often bloody)
Fever
Stomach cramps
Nausea or vomiting
Painful straining to pass stools (tenesmus)
Causes
Shigellosis is caused by Shigella bacteria. Transmission occurs when someone ingests Shigella bacteria, usually through:
Contact with the stool of an infected person.
Eating contaminated food.
Drinking contaminated water.
Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the mouth.
Medicine Used
Antibiotics: Shigellosis is usually treated with antibiotics. Common antibiotics include azithromycin, ciprofloxacin (for adults), or ceftriaxone. The specific antibiotic used will depend on the severity of the infection and antibiotic resistance patterns in the area.
Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS): To prevent dehydration from diarrhea.
Avoid anti-diarrheal medications such as loperamide, as they can worsen the infection.
Is Communicable
Yes, shigellosis is highly communicable. It spreads easily through the fecal-oral route.
Precautions
Wash hands frequently: Especially after using the toilet, changing diapers, and before preparing or eating food.
Proper food handling: Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly. Cook food to safe temperatures.
Safe water: Drink safe, treated water. Avoid swallowing water from swimming pools, lakes, or rivers.
Avoid sexual activity with someone who has shigellosis or is recovering.
Stay home from work or school if you have shigellosis to prevent spreading the infection.
Disinfect surfaces frequently touched with a solution of bleach and water.
How long does an outbreak last?
An individual infection typically lasts from 5 to 7 days. Outbreaks can last longer, depending on the effectiveness of control measures implemented to prevent further spread within a community or institution.
How is it diagnosed?
Stool culture: A stool sample is taken and tested for the presence of Shigella bacteria. This is the most common and reliable diagnostic method.
Timeline of Symptoms
Incubation period: 1-2 days (time between exposure and the start of symptoms).
Symptoms: Typically start within 1-2 days of infection.
Duration: Symptoms usually last 5-7 days, but can sometimes persist for several weeks.
Important Considerations
Dehydration: Diarrhea can lead to dehydration, especially in young children and the elderly. It is important to drink plenty of fluids.
Antibiotic resistance: Shigella bacteria are increasingly resistant to some antibiotics, which can make treatment more difficult.
Post-infectious complications: Rarely, shigellosis can lead to complications such as reactive arthritis (Reiter's syndrome) or hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS).
Public Health Reporting: Shigellosis is a reportable disease, meaning healthcare providers are required to report cases to public health authorities. This helps track outbreaks and implement control measures.