Shigella is a type of bacteria that infects the lining of the intestines, causing an illness known as shigellosis. This bacterial infection spreads easily, typically through contaminated food or water or by direct contact with an infected person. It often occurs in places with overcrowded living conditions or poor sanitation. Children under five and individuals with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to shigellosis, with around 450,000 cases reported annually in the U.S.
The main symptom of shigellosis is diarrhea, but it can also cause stomach pain, fever, and cramping. Most people recover fully from this infection, sometimes even without medical treatment, but seeking treatment can help ease symptoms and prevent spreading it to others. Typically, symptoms appear one to three days after exposure to Shigella and last about a week, though some people may experience them for up to a month.
The common symptoms of shigellosis include:
Because the infection can cause diarrhea, it may lead to dehydration, which includes signs like:
In children, dehydration might also include a lack of tears when crying, not wetting diapers for three hours or more, high fever, and unusual sleepiness or irritability.
Shigellosis happens when you’re exposed to Shigella bacteria, which come in various strains and are highly contagious. In the U.S., infections usually involve Shigella sonnei or Shigella flexneri, while Shigella dysenteriae is more common in other countries.
People usually catch the infection by getting Shigella into their mouths, often after touching contaminated surfaces. Higher-risk groups include:
If you suspect you have shigellosis or are experiencing symptoms, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider. They may inquire about your medical history, symptoms, and recent travel and perform a physical exam. Diagnostic tests are often ordered to confirm Shigella infection.
While the infection can clear up on its own, antibiotics may be prescribed to shorten its duration and help stop its spread. It’s crucial to drink plenty of fluids, particularly those with electrolytes, to counteract dehydration. Over-the-counter diarrhea medicines like Imodium should be avoided as they can prolong the illness and worsen symptoms. If you or your child experience severe symptoms like nausea or vomiting, medical treatment may be necessary, including IV fluids in a hospital setting.
Preventing shigellosis mainly involves avoiding the ingestion of Shigella bacteria. Simple steps can help protect yourself and others:
Depending on the strain causing the infection and your overall health, rare complications might occur.
Shigellosis is a common intestinal infection caused by Shigella bacteria. It leads to symptoms like diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and dehydration. It’s particularly concerning for young children, immunocompromised individuals, and those in crowded conditions. Diagnosis involves a combination of symptom assessment and stool sample analysis. Treatment aims to prevent dehydration, with antibiotics sometimes prescribed to reduce the longevity and intensity of symptoms. Prevention focuses on good hygiene practices, such as regular hand washing, not swallowing contaminated water, and avoiding sexual contact with someone infected until at least two weeks after symptoms end.
