Health authorities in Kerala have reported a death and two additional cases of Shigella infection, prompting officials to step up food safety inspections and public health surveillance.
A four-year-old girl, identified as Nila from Kozhikode district, died after contracting the bacterial infection, health officials said.
Two other children were also diagnosed with Shigella. A 10-year-old child who was undergoing treatment has since been discharged from hospital, while a two-year-old child remains under medical care and is reported to be in stable condition.
Following the cases, state authorities have intensified preventive measures to curb the spread of the infection. The Food Safety Department has been directed to conduct strict inspections at restaurants
and food establishments to ensure hygiene standards are being maintained.
What Is Shigella?
Shigella is a bacterial infection that affects the intestines and spreads primarily through contaminated food, water or poor hygiene practices. The disease, known as shigellosis, is highly contagious and is particularly common among young children.
Symptoms typically include fever, diarrhoea, stomach pain, abdominal cramps and, in some cases, bloody stools. Severe infections can lead to dehydration and other complications, especially among children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems.
Authorities Urge Caution
Health officials have advised the public to maintain proper hand hygiene, consume safe drinking water and ensure food is prepared under hygienic conditions.
Authorities are also monitoring the situation closely and tracing possible sources of infection as part of efforts to prevent further cases.
The latest cases have raised concerns about food safety and sanitation, leading the state government to strengthen inspections and public health awareness campaigns across affected areas.
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