What is shigellosis? |
Shigellosis is an infection of the intestine caused by the Shigella bacteria. These bacteria are a common cause of diarrhea, especially in developing countries. |
How is shigellosis spread? |
Shigella bacteria are found in the feces (stool) of a person with shigellosis and are spread by direct person-to-person contact through the fecal-oral route. This means that feces (usually tiny, invisible amounts) from the person with shigellosis must get into the mouth of another person for the infection to spread. This can happen if you eat food or drink water that has become contaminated, especially if it was handled by someone who was ill with shigellosis and did not properly washed his or her hands before handling the food. Shigella bacteria can also be spread sexually through contact with a person’s feces during sexual activities or through the use of sex toys. Some people with shigellosis may not show any symptoms but still spread the infection to others. Shigellosis may also continue to be spread from one person to another for up to 4 weeks after symptoms end. |
What are the symptoms of shigellosis? |
Symptoms can range from mild to severe, and usually appear 1 to 3 days (sometimes up to 7 days) after a person is in contact with the bacteria. In healthy people, symptoms may include diarrhea (sometimes bloody or with mucous), abdominal cramps, fever, nausea, vomiting and dehydration. Young children, the elderly, or people with weak immune systems may experience more severe symptoms and complications. |
What is the treatment for shigellosis? |
Most people with shigellosis are ill for 4 to 7 days and recover with no treatment. Anyone with diarrhea should drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. If symptoms are persistent or severe (for example, high fever, bloody diarrhea, severe stomach cramping or tenderness, dehydration, or feeling very sick), it is important to see a healthcare provider. Talk to your healthcare provider before using anti-diarrheal medications that slow down your bowels because these medications may make your symptoms worse. |
Are there any restrictions or special considerations for people ill with shigellosis? |
Generally, people can return to work and school when they feel better and no longer have symptoms. People who handle food as part of their work, those who provide health care services, and those who work in or attend a child care centre must stay home and away from work or daycare if they are ill with shigellosis. Ottawa Public Health will advise when they may return to work. |
How can I protect myself and others against shigellosis? |
To prevent becoming ill with shigellosis:
|
What is Ottawa Public Health’s role? |
Ottawa Public Health (OPH) must be notified by health care providers and laboratories when a person has shigellosis. OPH conducts an investigation to try to determine the cause or source of infection, provides education to the person with shigellosis, and follows up with the person’s health care provider as necessary. OPH also investigates close contacts of a person for possible exposure. OPH will advise people ill with shigellosis and their contacts when they may return to work and child care. If a common source of illness is identified, OPH will investigate further to determine if additional public health actions are required. |
For further information, call Ottawa Public Health at 613-580-6744
Contact Us