Kozhikode: Amid the outbreak of Shigella infection in Kerala, state Health Minister K Muraleedharan on Tuesday urged local bodies to further strengthen
hygiene and sanitation measures after the report of infections in Wayanad district. He noted that poor sanitation and contaminated food or water may lead to disease transmission.
Govt asks officials to maintain cleanliness standards
Speaking at an event, the minister stressed on the need to keep strict cleanliness standards in public places, which include roadside eateries and food stalls. “Many people, including prominent personalities, eat from street food stalls. But hygiene must be maintained at all times. Safe drinking water and clean food preparation are essential to prevent the spread of infections,” news agency PTI quoted him as saying.
He further pointed out that the illness linked to contaminated food and water may lead to serious health complications. He also asked panchayats and municipal corporations to continue with regular cleaning activities and ensure a proper waste management system. On Monday, two school students were tested positive for Shigella infection in Wayanad.
What is Shigella infection?
Notably, Shigella infection is a group of bacteria that leads to intestinal infection, which is known as Shigellosis. The infection affects the digestive tract. It also spreads through the faecal–oral route, mostly through contaminated food, surface water, surfaces, or unwashed hands. Among the reasons that Shigella is a significant public health concern is the fact that a very few bacteria are required to cause infection, which makes it contagious in public places like schools, households, and other places
.Often, the disease leads to diarrhoea, fever, and an urgent need to pass stools. Importantly, diarrhoea may become bloody or contain mucus due to inflammation in the body. Those suffering from this disease may experience painful movements and uneasiness in the abdomen.
