Shigellosis: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Shigellosis is a type of food poisoning caused by a group of bacteria called Shigella. This infection can lead to uncomfortable symptoms such as stomach cramps, fever, and frequent, watery or bloody diarrhea. While shigellosis is common among young children, it can affect people of all ages, especially when traveling to developing countries with poor hygiene conditions.

Causes of Shigellosis

Shigella bacteria enter your body through your mouth and multiply in your intestines, causing inflammation and the characteristic symptoms of shigellosis. The disease spreads when bacteria from an infected person's stool come into contact with another person's mouth. This can happen through:

• Touching contaminated objects, such as changing tables, toys, or doorknobs

• Eating food prepared by someone with shigellosis who hasn't washed their hands properly

• Swallowing contaminated water, such as in a swimming pool or pond

• Sexual contact involving oral-anal contact

Symptoms of Shigellosis

The primary symptom of shigellosis is diarrhea, which may be accompanied by blood or mucus. Other symptoms may include:

• Nausea and vomiting

• Fever

• Stomach and abdominal cramping

• Tenesmus (feeling the need to use the bathroom even when your bowels are empty)

Mild cases of shigellosis usually clear up within a week without treatment. However, seniors, infants, and people with weakened immune systems may experience more severe symptoms. Seek medical attention if you experience severe diarrhea, fever, or signs of dehydration.

Treatment for Shigellosis

In most cases, shigellosis can be managed by getting plenty of rest and staying hydrated to replace fluids lost through diarrhea. Avoid anti-diarrheal medications, as they can worsen the infection. In severe cases, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to help shorten the duration of the illness. However, some Shigella bacteria are resistant to antibiotics, so it's essential to follow up with your doctor if your symptoms don't improve after several days of treatment.

Preventing Shigellosis

Since there is no vaccine or cure for shigellosis, the best way to prevent the disease is through good hygiene practices. This includes:

• Washing your hands thoroughly with warm water and soap, especially after using the bathroom, changing diapers, and before preparing or eating food

• Keeping children with diarrhea out of daycare or school until they recover

• Avoiding drinking water from pools, lakes, or ponds

• Eating only boiled, cooked, or peeled food when traveling abroad

• Wrapping and disposing of soiled diapers properly

• Avoiding sexual contact with someone who has recently had diarrhea

By understanding the causes, symptoms, treatment options, and prevention strategies for shigellosis, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones from this common food poisoning. Remember, practicing good hygiene is the key to reducing the risk of infection and maintaining your overall health.

For more information on shigellosis and other foodborne illnesses, visit:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Shigella

• World Health Organization (WHO) - Shigellosis

• Mayo Clinic - Shigella infection

The Bottom Line

Most cases resolve with supportive care and hydration within a week, but seek medical attention for high fever, signs of dehydration, or bloody diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours. Early treatment can prevent serious complications and reduce the contagious period. If you're experiencing severe gastrointestinal symptoms, Doctronic can help determine if you need immediate care.