Ernakulam: Another case of Shigella infection was reported in Vazhakulam panchayat, Ernakulam on Monday when a 39-year-old man was diagnosed with the infection.
Sources said that his health condition is well and he responds to the treatment. He was admitted to a private hospital in the city, where he was diagnosed with the bacteria. The infection was further confirmed in the tests conducted at the Regional Public Health Lab and Government Medical College, Kalamassery.
In the wake of infection, district health department and health workers visited the area, held medical awareness program and undertook preventive measures against the contagious infection.
In order to evaluate the situation, a meeting was held under the leadership of Dr Vivek Kumar, District Medical Officer-in-Charge. District Surveillance Officer Dr Sridevi was also present in the meeting.
With two Shigella cases being reported here, the health department directed people to maintain personal hygiene and advised them to use boiled water for drinking.
The main guidelines to prevent Shigella infection include:
- Wash your hands well before food
- Wash hands well with soap and water after using toilet
- Avoid from open defecation and urination
- Those who have the symptoms must not cook food
- Do not eat stale food
- Always keep food covered with a lid in a hygienic manner
- Do not let children with dysentery mingle with others
- Avoid being in unhygienic surroundings
- Avoid direct contact with Shigella patients or those with symptoms
- Chlorinate all drinking water sources in the prescribed manner
- Wash fruits and vegetables very well before use
Also read: Fresh shigella case reported in Kerala
