Since 2015 already, experts have noted the increase in cases of gastric problems linked to a bacterium called Shigella. Coming from a strain called XDR, this causes fever, diarrhea and stomach pain and has been identified as drug resistant.
Lately, scientists are even talking regarding a “serious threat to public health” in view of the outbreak of infections. Without effective treatment, the microbe might cause serious illness or even death, explain our colleagues from the Sun.
So in a statement released last Friday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said that 5% of all Shigella infections recorded in 2022 were due to the resistant strain XDR – up from 1% in 2019. increase in cases mostly seen among homeless people, international travelers, men who have sex with men and immunocompromised people, the CDC said.
“Given these potentially serious public health concerns, the CDC urges healthcare professionals to be vigilant in suspecting and reporting cases of Shigella XDR infection to their local or state health department and in educating patients and communities at increased risk on prevention and transmission,” he explains.
If some categories of people are more vulnerable than others, the Shigella bacteria can be contracted by anyone. This often develops when victims do not wash their hands properly following using the toilet or during anal sex.
In order to avoid the spread of the bacteria, it is advisable to wash your hands regularly with soap and water and to avoid sharing towels and other washcloths.
Finally, those affected should drink fluids to avoid dehydration and consult a doctor to determine if antibiotics are necessary.
