Symptoms, Remedies, and Safeguards for Shigellosis
Shigellosis is a bacterial infection that affects the digestive system, caused by the bacteria Shigella. Approximately 450,000 people in the United States report having shigellosis every year, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The primary symptom of shigellosis is diarrhea, caused by toxins released by the bacteria. Other symptoms include frequent bouts of watery diarrhea, abdominal cramping, nausea, vomiting, blood or mucus in stool, and fever. These symptoms usually last between 5-7 days, but the Shigella bacteria can remain in the stool for weeks after symptoms have gone away.
The Shigella bacterium is spread through contaminated water and food or contact with contaminated feces. To prevent shigellosis, it's essential to practice good personal hygiene, such as washing hands before and after using the bathroom, using soap and warm water, and wiping down surfaces with antibacterial wipes. Young children, who are more susceptible to shigellosis due to their frequent hand-to-mouth contact and high concentration of infection in childcare centers, should be particularly careful.
People who have shigellosis should avoid preparing food for others until they feel better and stop having diarrhea. Dehydration is a real danger associated with shigellosis, so it's critical to stay hydrated during the illness, especially if diarrhea lasts for more than 3 days or if you can't keep down food or water. Treatment for shigellosis primarily involves combating dehydration by drinking plenty of fluids, especially electrolyte solutions. Antibiotics may be prescribed for moderate or severe infections.
In some cases, hospitalization for shigellosis may be necessary, such as in severe situations with extreme nausea and vomiting. Complications associated with shigellosis can include post-infection arthritis, bloodstream infections, seizures in young children, and hemolytic-uremic syndrome. Post-infection arthritis is caused by a reaction to the Shigella infection and happens only in people who are genetically predisposed to it.
Your doctor may test your stool to confirm a Shigella infection. Confirmation of Shigella helps your doctor to choose the right medication to fight shigellosis. Drug options for treating shigellosis include azithromycin (Zithromax), ciprofloxacin (Cipro), and sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (Bactrim).
Once you've contracted one type of Shigella, you're unlikely to develop an infection from the same bacteria again, but you may contract a different bacterium from the same family. It's important to remember that prevention is key in avoiding shigellosis.
In conclusion, shigellosis is a preventable bacterial infection that can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms. By practicing good hygiene and staying aware of the risks, you can help protect yourself and others from this illness. If you suspect you have shigellosis, consult your doctor immediately for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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