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Shigella infection
Shigella infection (shigellosis) is an intestinal infection caused by a family of bacteria known as shigella. The main sign of shigella infection is diarrhea, which often is bloody.
Shigella is very contagious. People get infected with shigella when they come in contact with and swallow small amounts of bacteria from the stool of a person who is infected with shigella. For example, this can happen in a child care setting when staff members don't wash their hands well enough af...
When to seek medical or mental health expertAlways seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your health. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the community.Signs and symptoms of shigella infection usually begin a day or two after contact with shigella. But it may take up to a week to develop. Signs and symptoms may include:
- Diarrhea (often containing blood or mucus)
- Stomach pain or cramps
- Fever
- Nausea or vomiting
Symptoms generally last for about five to seven days. In some cases, symptoms may last longer. Some people have no symp...
Infection occurs when you accidentally swallow shigella bacteria. This can happen when you:
- Touch your mouth. Direct person-to-person contact is the most common way the disease is spread. For example, if you don't wash your hands well after changing the diaper of a child who has shigella infection, you may become infected yourself.
- Eat contaminated food. Infected people who handle food can spread the bacteria to people who eat the food. Food can als...
Shigella infection usually runs its course in five to seven days. Replacing lost fluids from diarrhea may be all the treatment you need, particularly if your general health is good and your shigella infection is mild.
Over-the-counter drugs
Talk to your doctor before taking an over-the-counter (OTC) drug intended to treat diarrhea. Diarrhea can be caused by a number of conditions, and OTC drugs may make some conditions worse....
Although researchers continue to work to develop a shigella vaccine, nothing is available yet. To prevent the spread of shigella:
- Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds frequently
- Watch small children when they wash their hands
- Throw away soiled diapers properly
- Disinfect diaper-changing areas after use
- Don't prepare food for others if you have diarrhea...
For informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
© Mayo Clinic
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