Kozhikode: A few cases of Shigella infection have been reported in Kozhikode district, in Kerala. Twenty cases have been reported with similar symptoms from Kottamparamba, Mundikkalthazham area in Kozhikode on Friday. One death has also been recorded owing to the infection.
The District Medical Officer (DMO) Dr Jayasree V has asked people in the region to take precautionary measures as Shigella infection has been confirmed and one death was reported. In the stool examination, 6 cases have been confirmed to be of Shigellosis bacterial infection. Water samples from the region have also been taken for laboratory tests, said the DMO. A team led by the District Surveillance Officer visited the area and evaluated the preventive measured being taken.
As part of this, health workers carried out super chlorination in wells and water sources in the region. The Health team also conducted door to door awareness in all houses in the area and have distributed ORS packets through Anganwadis. Health workers have been directed to maintain high alert in the area.
Symptoms of Shigella infection:
Diarrhea, fever, stomach pain, vomiting, fatigue and blood stained stools are common symptoms of Shigella bacterial infection.
The bacteria mainly infects the intestine and hence blood traces are found in the stool of the infected persons. The transmission of the bacteria is through the consumption of contaminated water and stale food.
The risk of fatality is higher in children below 5 years of age if the symptoms of the infection are severe.
If the precautionary measures are not taken, the transmission of the Shigella infection os very quick. The disease spreads when an uninfected person comes into direct or indirect contact with the excreta of an infected person.
The symptoms generally exist for 2 to 7 days of contracting the infection. In some cases, the symptoms may last longer. Some cases may also be asymptomatic.
Medical care must be sought on experiencing the symptoms - fever, blood traced stools, dehydration, and fatigue.
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Preventive and precautionary measures:
Use only boiled water for drinking purposes.
Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before having food and after using the toilet.
Practice good personal hygiene.
Do not defecate or pee in the open areas.
Dispose and incinerate used diapers in the proper manner.
Those who have symptoms must avoid cooking food.
Do not eat old and stale food.
Always cover food and water in the proper manner.
Children who have symptoms of diarrhea should not mingle with others.
Disinfect toilets and bathrooms.
Do not be in an unhygienic environment.
Avoid all direct contacts with the patient.
Wash all vegetables and fruits very well before use.
Those who have symptoms must rehydrate themselves with ORS solution, Salted porridge, and tender coconut water.
Chlorinate all water sources.
