What is Shigella flexneri?
Shigella flexneri is one of the four species of bacteria belonging to the genus Shigella. This bacterium is known to cause shigella infections, which can lead to severe gastrointestinal symptoms. Shigella infections are particularly common in areas with poor sanitation but can occur worldwide.
Symptoms of Shigella Infection
Symptoms of a Shigella infection can range from mild to very severe and usually appear within a to three days after exposure to the bacteria. Common symptoms include:
Diarrhea: Often bloody or mucous.
Abdominal pain: Cramping pains in the stomach.
Fever: Moderate to high fever.
Nausea and vomiting: May occur in some cases.
Tenesme: A feeling of having to empty the bowels despite it is already empty.
How is Shigella flexneri spread?
Shigella flexneri is mainly spread through fecal-oral contact, which means that the bacterium is transferred from faeces to the mouth. This can happen through:
Contaminated food or water: Food handled by an infected person or water contaminated with sewage.
Direct contact: Personal contact with an infected person, especially if you do not wash your hands properly after using the toilet.
Surfaces: Touching surfaces contaminated with the bacteria.
Preventive measures
Preventing shigella infections requires good hygiene and sanitary measures. Here are some practical tips:
Wash your hands
One of the most effective ways to prevent shigella infections is to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. This is especially important after using the toilet and before handling food.
Handling food safely
Make sure food is cooked properly and avoid eating raw foods that may be contaminated. Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw and cooked foods.
Drink clean water
In areas where water quality is questionable, drink bottled or boiled water. Avoid ice cubes if you are not sure of the purity of the water.
Avoid direct contact with the infected
If someone in your household has a shigella infection, make sure they are isolated as much as possible until they has fully recovered. Disinfect surfaces regularly and avoid sharing personal items.
Treatment of Shigella Infection
The treatment of Shigella infections often includes rehydration to replace fluids lost through diarrhea. In more serious cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to fight the infection. It is important to seek medical attention if the symptoms are severe or persistent.
Scientific evidence
According to the Public Health Agency (https://www.folkhalsomyndigheten.se/smittskydd-beredskap/smittsamma-sjukdoar/shigellainfektionar-/) there are several scientific studies that show the effectiveness of good hygiene and sanitation measures to reduce the spread of Shigella flexneri. Research has also shown that early treatment with the right antibiotics can reduce the duration and severity of the illness.
Summary
Shigella flexneri is a serious bacteria that can cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms. By taking simple hygiene measures such as hand washing and safe food and water handling, the risk of infection can be significantly reduced. If you suspect a Shigella infection, seek medical help immediately for proper treatment.
By being aware of how Shigella flexneri is spread and taking the necessary preventive measures, we can all help reduce the spread of this contagious disease.
