Shigella outbreak in Kerala brought under control, assures state health minister

The Shigella bacterial infection that was reported in some areas of Kozhikode corporation is under control now, Kerala Health Minister KK Shailaja has informed.

"An 11-year-old child died last week in Kozhikode. After that tests have been done for about fifty suspected cases and six have been infected. Now, only two are in the hospital while others have been discharged," Shailaja said.

"Shigella bacterial infection which spreads through contaminated water had reported in rural parts of Kozhikode last year as well. This year, the infection has been reported in the corporation limit, Mayanad, and Kottamparamba areas. The health department has conducted an awareness campaign and set up medical camps. Wells in the area were chlorinated," she said.

Earlier, the health minister had said that this is not the first time the bacteria has been reported in the state, adding that there have been similar reports in the past as well. 

"Usually these viruses spread through contaminated water. Hence, it is highly advised for people living in densely populated areas to use boiled water for drinking. Everybody must maintain caution and ensure proper hygiene" she had said.

Kozhikode District Medical Officer V Jayashree has informed that 26 cases of diarrhoea have been reported in the district over the past few days. Six of these cases have been linked with Shigella, an infection where diarrhoea emerges as the primary symptom.

Health authorities in the state are making efforts to trace the root cause of the infection. Water and food samples have also been collected from affected areas.