Kerala Steps Up Shigella Watch

Kerala has strengthened health surveillance after a four-year-old girl from Kozhikode died following a Shigella infection, while fresh cases among schoolchildren in Wayanad triggered concern among health officials.

Health officials are now focusing on school-level monitoring, safe drinking water checks and food hygiene inspections to prevent further spread among children.

According to officials, students who developed symptoms are being monitored closely. A medical team from Kozhikode has also been sent to Wayanad to support local health authorities. The government has directed food safety officials to inspect restaurants, eateries and public food points as a precautionary measure.

Why Officials Are Cautious

Shigella is a bacterial infection that mainly affects the intestines and can spread through contaminated water, unsafe food and poor hygiene. Common symptoms include diarrhoea, fever, stomach pain and vomiting.

Officials said the situation is under control, but advised people to remain alert. Parents and schools have been urged to watch for symptoms, provide safe drinking water, maintain clean toilets and encourage regular handwashing among children.

Public Safety Measures

Health authorities have asked medical officers in all districts to monitor suspected cases and keep necessary medicines ready. People with persistent diarrhoea, vomiting, fever or signs of dehydration should seek medical care quickly instead of relying only on home remedies.

The health department has also advised the public to avoid unsafe food and water, especially during the current alert period.