A shigella infection (shigellosis) is an intestinal infection caused by a family of bacteria known as shigella. The main sign of a shigella infection is diarrhoea with a colour and texture to be aware of.
Shigella is caused by bacteria found in faeces.
Only a tiny amount needs to get into your mouth to pass it on – for example, from your fingers.
It’s often caused by contaminated food, however, it can also be passed on sexually.
Sex that may involve contact with faeces is a risk.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), shigella symptoms may include:
- Fever
- Bloody diarrhoea
- Severe stomach cramping or tenderness
- Dehydrated
- Feel very sick.
For most people this is an unpleasant illness that gets better on its own after three to seven days.
But some people can have a severe illness.
If your symptoms are severe or persistent, a GP may prescribe a short course of antibiotics. If you have very severe dysentery, you may need treatment in hospital for a few days.
It’s important to be tested for shigella so that the right antibiotics can be used to treat the infection.
