A contagious bacterial infection known as shigellosis, which causes severe diarrhea, is appearing in multiple areas of the state. Although cases occur sporadically in every district, clusters have formed in several places due to tainted food or water and inadequate sanitation. Reports have come from Wayanad, Kozhikode, Alappuzha, and Malappuram. On Monday, two confirmed infections were identified among children at a school in Wayanad, with additional students showing possible symptoms. Health authorities have recorded 85 confirmed cases and more than 70 suspected ones through June 7. The illness often resolves on its own in healthy adults but poses serious risks to children under five, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. Two child deaths linked to the disease have occurred, one in April and another on June 6, both in Kozhikode. Officials urge careful attention to food, water, and personal hygiene to limit further transmission. The infection spreads easily through contaminated items and close contact, meaning one case can affect an entire household without strict precautions. Typical symptoms begin one or two days after exposure and include fever, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, bloody stools, and frequent painful bowel urges. Authorities recommend oral rehydration salts to avoid dehydration and stress completing any prescribed antibiotics. Thorough hand washing with soap for twenty seconds, covering all finger surfaces and nails, is advised before handling food or after using the toilet. In affected homes, personal items and utensils should be kept separate, and recovered individuals should avoid preparing food for others or eating out for at least two weeks. Water must be boiled regardless of source, and chlorine tablets should purify water used for washing produce or dishes. Stale or raw foods such as salads should be avoided in favor of freshly prepared meals at home. Food outlets must ensure staff hold valid health certificates and maintain clean kitchens with hand-washing facilities. The health minister has directed stronger inspections, with closure orders for any vendors found violating hygiene rules. The opposition leader called for immediate coordinated action between health services and local bodies to contain the spread.
