Thiruvananthapuram , 07 June (H.S.): Kerala has reported 126 cases of Shigella infection across the state, Health Minister K. Muraleedharan said on Sunday, urging the public to strictly follow hygiene and food safety measures to prevent further spread of the disease.

The Minister said three children in Kozhikode had recently tested positive for the bacterial infection. Two of the children have recovered and been discharged from hospital. Referring to suspected cases in Sulthan Bathery, Muraleedharan clarified that preliminary tests had not confirmed Shigella infection and further laboratory examinations had been ordered.

The Health Department has issued strict instructions to ensure food and water safety. The Food Safety Department has been directed to intensify inspections across the state, particularly in hotels and eateries. The Minister stressed that only purified drinking water should be served in public establishments.

Muraleedharan said tests conducted on water from a tube well at a school where several students had reported diarrhoea found no contamination. However, the results of tests conducted on another well at the school are still awaited. He added that symptoms associated with the infection had been reported from several parts of Kozhikode district on Sunday.

Shigella is a highly contagious bacterial infection that spreads mainly through contaminated drinking water, spoiled or improperly stored food, and food prepared under unhygienic conditions. The disease can also spread through direct or indirect contact with the waste of infected individuals.

Health officials said common symptoms include diarrhoea, fever, abdominal pain, vomiting, fatigue, and stools mixed with blood or mucus. People experiencing these symptoms have been advised to seek immediate medical attention and avoid self-medication.

The Health Department has urged the public to drink only boiled and cooled water, wash hands thoroughly with soap before meals and after using the toilet, maintain personal hygiene, and avoid consuming stale food. Fruits and vegetables should be washed properly before consumption, while food items should be stored in covered containers.

Authorities have also advised chlorination of drinking water sources and warned against consuming beverages from unhygienic locations. Patients showing symptoms have been advised to take oral rehydration solutions (ORS), salted rice gruel water, and tender coconut water to prevent dehydration while seeking medical treatment.

The government said public cooperation and adherence to hygiene practices are essential to contain the spread of the infection, particularly among children and other vulnerable groups.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman