Shigella

Description
Shigella is a severe intestinal infection caused by bacteria. The germ can be identified by a faecal culture. Symptoms include diarrhoea (sometimes containing blood or mucus), fever, vomiting and cramps. Some infected people have no symptoms. Shigella spreads when hands, objects or food become contaminated with the faeces of infected people, and the bacteria are then taken in by mouth. Very small numbers of the bacteria are sufficient to cause an infection. Stringent control measures are needed.


Incubation Period
1-7 days, usually 1-3 days.


Infectious Period
While ill and for a few days afterwards.


Controlling the Spread of Infection
Exclude a person with infectious diarrhoea from the centre. Make sure that good handwashing and cleaning procedures are being followed in the centre and at home. A person with shigella in their faeces must not be involved in food preparation. Staff may resume handling food when three separate faeces samples show that no shigella is present. Contact your local health authority if more than one child in one group is ill. Public health workers may be able to help identify how the germ has spread through the centre and prevent further infection.


Treatment
A child with this infection may become seriously ill. The child may need hospitalisation. Seek medical advice on treatment and fluid replacement. The doctor may prescribe antibiotics.


Comments

-

Disclaimer
The information contained in this website is intended as a guide only. Wollongong Medical Centre is not liable for any problems that may arise from incorrectly or otherwise applying information found in this website.


Further General Information

The following web site has information on infectious diseases: www.health.nsw.gov.au/infect/ or contact the Division of Population and Planning on 4255-2200.

For information on a large range of medical conditions and problems visit www.mayoclinic.com