Shigellosis (Shigella Infection) FAQ
What causes Shigellosis?
Shigellosis is caused by consuming food or water contaminated with Shigella bacteria or through direct contact with an infected person.
Is Shigellosis contagious?
Yes, Shigellosis is highly contagious and can spread through fecal-oral route or close contact with infected individuals.
What are the symptoms of Shigellosis?
Common symptoms include diarrhea with blood/mucus, abdominal cramps, fever, and nausea, usually starting 1-4 days after exposure.
How is Shigellosis diagnosed?
Diagnosis is confirmed through stool tests that detect Shigella bacteria in the feces.
What is the treatment for Shigellosis?
Treatment involves antibiotics like ciprofloxacin or azithromycin to shorten illness duration and prevent complications.
Can Shigellosis be prevented?
Prevention involves good hygiene, safe water consumption, proper food handling, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals.
How long does Shigellosis last?
Symptoms typically last 5-7 days without treatment, but antibiotics can reduce duration and severity.
Is Shigellosis serious?
While often mild, Shigellosis can lead to severe dehydration, especially in children, the elderly, or those with weakened immune systems.
Can I get Shigellosis from pets?
Yes, pets, especially dogs, can carry Shigella; avoid contact with their feces and practice good hand hygiene.
What foods commonly cause Shigellosis?
Contaminated foods like raw vegetables, unpasteurized dairy products, and undercooked poultry are common sources.
How to treat Shigellosis at home?
Stay hydrated with oral rehydration solutions, rest, and follow prescribed antibiotic treatment.
When to see a doctor for Shigellosis?
Consult a doctor if symptoms persist, worsen, or if you experience severe dehydration, blood in stool, or high fever.
Can antibiotics cure Shigellosis?
Antibiotics can effectively treat Shigellosis by reducing symptoms and contagion period, but not all cases require them.
Is Shigellosis vaccine available?
Currently, no vaccine is widely available for Shigellosis prevention.
How to disinfect against Shigella?
Use bleach solutions to disinfect contaminated surfaces, especially in areas with fecal contamination.
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