Ernakulam: After Kozhikode, Shigella bacterial infection was reported in Kochi as a woman from Chottanikkara was confirmed to have contracted the infection, here on Wednesday.
The woman, aged 56, hailing from Chottanikkara in Ernakulam district, was admitted to a private hospital as she developed the symptoms of Shigella infection. Hospital authorities confirmed Shigella infection.
Samples from drinking water sources near to the Shigella patient’s house were collected for tests. As a precautionary action, the district administration initiated further tests, preventive measures and awareness programmes. As the first Shigella case was confirmed in the district, an emergent review meeting was convened at the District Medical Council to evaluate the situation.
Shigella is a bacterial infection that spreads mainly through stale and unhygienic food and contaminated drinking water. The common symptoms of contracting the Shigella infection are dysentery, fever, stomach pain, vomiting, fatigue and weakness, blood traced stools. The Shigella disease quickly spreads on coming into direct or indirect contact with the faeces of a Shigella patient.
The District Health Department had released the precautionary measures and directions to be followed to prevent the disease. The main guidelines to prevent Shigella infection include:
- Use boiled water only for drinking
- Wash your hands well before food
- Wash hands well with soap and water after using the 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: Shigella outbreak in Kerala under control: Minister
