What exactly is Shigellosis, you ask?

Shigellosis, a very infectious disease, can cause severe Diarrhea , fever and cramps. Shigellosis is caused by Shigella bacteria, which can be passed to others through infected food and water. It is estimated to cause 600,000. deaths each year in developed and developing countries according to the World Health Organization.

Shigellosis is most commonly characterized by watery or bloody diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and fever. Sometimes, complications can result such as Seizures and dehydration. If any of these symptoms occur, it is crucial to get medical attention.

Shigellosis: Common Causes

Shigellosis spreads mainly by direct or indirect contact with infected people's feces, or through contamination of food and water. It can be spread through poor hygiene and insufficient sanitation. Shigella is also resistant to the elements and can live in an environment for up to seven days. This makes it very difficult to eradicate.

You may also be at risk of shigellosis if you travel to places with poor sanitation or eat contaminated foods, drink contaminated water and come into contact with an infected person.

Common Treatments for Shigellosis

Shigellosis is most commonly treated by Antibiotics such as Azithromycin and Ciprofloxacin . The symptoms of shigellosis can be reduced and the duration may be decreased by using antibiotics. Sometimes, though, the infection can persist even after treatment.

Other than antibiotics, hydration therapy is another treatment for shigellosis. This prevents dehydration and reduces the severity and frequency of diarrhea. The infection can also be treated with over-the-counter pain Medications such as Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen to relieve abdominal discomfort.

Shigellosis Experts and Professionals' Opinions

According to experts, the best method of preventing shigellosis are good hygiene and sanitation. Washing your hands with soap and water frequently, not eating raw, undercooked or contaminated foods and avoid swimming in unclean waters are some of the best ways to prevent shigellosis. It is also important to make sure that food and water are safe and clean.

Experts recommend that developing countries have better access to water and sanitation in order to decrease the risk of getting shigellosis. Health authorities must ensure that health workers receive proper training in diagnosing and treating this infection.

Prevention tips and Natural Remedies

Shigellosis can be reduced by using natural methods and preventive tips. They include:

• Use soap and water to wash your hands often
• Consume only cooked food
• Avoid consuming contaminated water.
• Good personal hygiene is important.
• Keeping up-to-date on vaccines

Probiotics containing Lactobacillus acidophilus, a beneficial bacteria, have been shown to reduce the chance of developing shigellosis. You can either take probiotics or apply them topically to your skin.

Shigellosis can also be prevented by vaccination. WHO suggests that every child receives the rotavirus vaccination, which may help prevent shigellosis.

Conclusion

Shigellosis, a very infectious disease, can cause severe diarrhea, fever and cramps. Shigellosis is caused by Shigella bacteria, which can be passed to others through food and water contamination. Shigellosis is most commonly characterized by watery or bloody diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and fever. Antibiotics, hydration therapy and anti-diarrheal medication are the most common treatments. Proper hygiene and sanitation are the best ways to avoid shigellosis. This includes washing your hands often with soap and water and not eating raw or undercooked food. Probiotics and rotavirus vaccinations can also be helpful in reducing the chance of developing shigellosis.

Shigellosis can cause severe illnesses and death. You can prevent this from spreading by following good hygiene practices, avoiding contamination of water sources, and practicing sanitation. For successful treatment, it is important to seek medical attention immediately if you feel any of these symptoms.