Two students test positive for Shigella in Kerala's Kollam
text_fields
Photo: IANS
Kollam: Health authorities confirmed on Thursday that two students undergoing treatment at the Government Medical College Hospital in Parippally, Kollam, have tested positive for Shigella infection. Around 38 students are currently receiving treatment after developing symptoms associated with the disease.
The affected students were admitted with diarrhoea, vomiting and fever. Laboratory tests conducted on their samples confirmed the bacterial infection.
Following the confirmation, health officials intensified surveillance and launched preventive measures to contain the spread. Authorities also urged the public to maintain personal hygiene and ensure access to safe drinking water, The New Indian Express reported.
Shigellosis is a highly contagious bacterial infection that affects the intestines and can cause severe diarrhoea, fever, stomach cramps and a persistent urge to pass stools.
The World Health Organization states that good hygiene practices, safe food and water consumption, and proper sanitation are key to preventing the disease.
Earlier this week, Kerala Health Minister K Muraleedharan called on local bodies to strengthen hygiene and sanitation efforts after reports of Shigella infections emerged in Wayanad.
As of Thursday, eight confirmed cases of Shigella infection had been reported among students in Wayanad.
