Shigellosis

An acute infection of the intestine by bacteria of the genus. The source of the infection is the faeces of infected people; the bacteria are spread by poor hygiene. Endemic in some countries, shigellosis occurs in isolated outbreaks in the UK. The disease usually starts suddenly, with diarrhoea, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, generalized aches, and fever. Persistent diarrhoea may cause dehydration, especially in babies and the elderly. Occasionally, toxaemia develops. Shigellosis usually subsides after a week or so, but hospital treatment may be needed for severe cases. Dehydration is treated by rehydration therapy. Antibiotics may be given.