Shigellosis

This is a gastrointestinal (digestive system) disease caused by bacteria called Shigella. Humans are the only carrier of Shigella. 

What are the signs and symptoms?

Symptoms of Shigellosis can range from mild stomach pain and diarrhea to severe bacteremia (bacteria in the blood) and death. The usual symptoms include: fever, headache, watery diarrhea and stomach pain.

After swallowing Shigella in food or drink, symptoms appear anywhere from 12 hours to 1 week, the usual time being between 1-3 days. Once a person is infected, they can pass on the disease to others until the bacteria is no longer in their bowel. It may take as long as 4 weeks after symptoms appear for the bacteria to leave the bowel. In very rare cases a carrier stage may last for 1 year or longer.

 
How does it spread?

Shigella is spread through food and water contaminated with human feces (stool). Contamination occurs in food preparation or in some cases in the way the food is grown. For example oysters can be a source of Shigella if they are grown in contaminated water. Houseflies can be spreaders of Shigella to food because they land on sewage and then on food, bringing Shigella and other bacteria on their feet and in their bodies.

• Hand washing is the single best way to prevent spreading the disease

• Drink water from treated or protected sources.

• Cook food thoroughly. Ensure that oysters and other shellfish are from a clean water source.