Shigella reaches Thrissur; two children under treatment

Thrissur: Two children from Mangalam in Vadakkanchery have tested positive for Shigella infection amid a wider rise in cases reported across Kerala, prompting health authorities to intensify surveillance and preventive measures in the district.

The infected children, a four-year-old girl and a seven-year-old boy, are undergoing treatment at Thrissur Medical College Hospital. The infection was detected after they returned from a trip to Tamil Nadu last week. Health officials said both children are in stable condition and are receiving appropriate medical care.

Following the confirmation of the cases, the Health Department has launched contact-tracing efforts and begun monitoring individuals who came into contact with the children. Authorities are also preparing a detailed contact list and assessing potential exposure risks. Surveillance activities in the area have been strengthened as a precautionary measure.

The Thrissur cases come amid a broader resurgence of Shigella infections in Kerala. Wayanad has emerged as the most affected district, with multiple infections reported among schoolchildren, leading to intensified monitoring of households and educational institutions. Additional cases have also been reported from Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram.

State health authorities have stepped up containment efforts across affected districts through contact tracing, sanitation drives, inspections of water sources and public awareness campaigns. Educational institutions and local bodies have also been directed to strengthen preventive measures to curb further transmission.

The outbreak has raised concern after fatalities linked to the infection were reported elsewhere in the state. Health officials have therefore urged the public to remain vigilant and maintain strict hygiene practices.

Shigella is a highly contagious bacterial infection that typically spreads through contaminated food, water and poor sanitation, causing symptoms such as diarrhoea, fever, stomach cramps and vomiting.