Kerala has seen a new outbreak of shigellosis, caused by this gram-negative, contagious bacterium, which infects millions globally every year
While no cases have been reported recently in the district, the threat remains, says DMO; public urged to follow food safety precautions and maintain personal hygiene
Officials told to prepare a special protocol for shigella treatment and carry out stringent inspections at roadside eateries and hotels found to be operating under unhygienic conditions; efforts on identify the source of infection
While the infection is self-limiting in healthy adults, it can be fatal for children under five years, in whom the highest mortality is reported. The elderly and immunocompromised individuals are also highly vulnerable