What is Shigella Infection?
Shigellosis is a contagious intestinal infection caused by a group of bacteria called Shigella. It is a common cause of dysentery (diarrhea with blood and mucus) worldwide.
While it is most often spread through contaminated food or water, Shigella can also be transmitted sexually, particularly through oral-anal contact (rimming) or any sexual activity that involves contact with feces.
Symptoms
Symptoms usually start 1-2 days after infection and include:
- Diarrhea (which can be bloody and/or contain mucus)
- Fever
- Stomach pain and cramping
- Tenesmus (a painful feeling of needing to pass stools even when the bowels are empty)
Sexual Transmission
Shigellosis is very contagious. Only a tiny amount of bacteria is needed to cause infection. It can be passed on during sex through direct or indirect contact with feces. This is why outbreaks are sometimes seen in communities of men who have sex with men (MSM), but anyone can get it through sexual contact.
Treatment for Shigellosis in Nepal
Most cases resolve on their own within a week. The main treatment is supportive care, especially rehydration by drinking plenty of fluids. However, for severe infections or in cases of drug-resistant strains, antibiotics may be necessary.
Our doctors may prescribe antibiotics like Ciprofloxacin or Azithromycin to shorten the duration of illness and prevent further spread, especially if the infection is severe or if you are in a high-risk group.
It is important to avoid sexual contact until you have fully recovered and have been symptom-free for at least 48 hours to prevent spreading the infection to your partner(s).