Kollam, 11 June (H.S.): Health authorities in Kerala have confirmed cases of Shigella infection in Kollam district, adding to concerns over the spread of the bacterial disease after a recent outbreak was reported in Wayanad.

According to health officials, two school students from the Paravur and Palathara areas of Kollam have tested positive for Shigella infection. Both children have been admitted to the Government Medical College Hospital at Parippally for treatment and observation.

Hospital authorities said the condition of the students is stable and there is no cause for public alarm at present. The children are responding well to treatment, and health officials are closely monitoring their recovery.

This is not the first instance of Shigella infection being reported in the district. Earlier, isolated cases had been detected in the Paravur region as well. Preliminary investigations suggest that the infection may have been contracted through the consumption of contaminated food or polluted water, which are among the most common sources of transmission for the disease.

In response to the latest cases, the District Medical Officer (DMO) has directed health teams to intensify preventive and surveillance measures in the affected areas. Authorities have also urged residents to maintain strict personal hygiene, consume safe drinking water, and ensure that food is prepared and stored under hygienic conditions.

Meanwhile, in Wayanad district, the number of confirmed Shigella cases has risen to eight. All the confirmed patients are children from Sulthan Bathery, where health officials have been conducting extensive monitoring and testing following reports of gastrointestinal illness among students.

Several other individuals displaying symptoms associated with the infection are currently undergoing treatment, and additional laboratory test results are expected later on Thursday. Health authorities said the health condition of all eight children who have tested positive remains satisfactory, with none reported to be in a critical condition.

The Health Department has stepped up disease surveillance in both districts and is continuing efforts to trace possible sources of infection. Officials have reiterated that early diagnosis, timely treatment, and adherence to hygiene practices are key to preventing the further spread of Shigella, a highly contagious bacterial infection that primarily affects the intestinal tract and can cause severe diarrhoea, fever, and abdominal pain.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman