Diseases

Shigella Infection

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Shigella infection (shigellosis) is an intestinal disease caused by a family of bacteria known as shigella. The main sign of shigella infection is diarrhea, which often is bloody. Shigella can Be passed through direct contact with the bacteria in the stool.

SYMPTOMS

Frequent bouts of watery diarrhea are the main symptom of shigellosis.Abdominal Cramping, nausea, and vomiting may also occur. Many people who have shigellosis also have either blood or mucus in their stool, and they may run a fever. Symptoms usually begin within 3 days of coming in contact with shigella.

CAUSES

The shigella germ is a family of bacteria that can cause diarrhea in humans. People with shigellosis shed the bacteria in their feces. The bacteria can spread from an infected person to contaminate water or food, or directly to another person.