Shigellosis Cases Resurface in Kerala, Health Officials Issue Fresh Warning

Shigellosis has resurfaced in Kerala, with a three-year-old child from Kottukal in Thiruvananthapuram district testing positive for the infection and undergoing treatment at SAT Hospital.

The child had travelled with her family to Nagercoil on August 12 and reportedly consumed a cold drink from a roadside vendor while returning. She developed diarrhoea and vomiting the next day and was later admitted to SAT Hospital. Doctors confirmed the infection on August 18, and the child is recovering in the paediatric ward.

The Health Department has renewed its warning following the case, urging people to exercise caution while consuming food and beverages outside their homes, particularly during the festival season.

Officials also reported another case from Vizhinjam in Thiruvananthapuram on August 18. Three other cases emerged from Pazhayannur in Thrissur, Kattipara in Kozhikode and Noolpuzha in Wayanad.

How shigellosis spreads

Shigellosis, also known as bacillary dysentery, is a highly contagious bacterial infection caused by Shigella. People can contract it by consuming contaminated food or water or through contact with contaminated surfaces.

Symptoms generally develop within one to two days of infection and include fever, diarrhoea, vomiting, nausea, blood in stools and a painful, frequent urge to pass stools.

While healthy adults may recover without complications, the infection can become severe in young children, particularly those under five. Older adults and people with weakened immune systems also face a higher risk of serious illness.

The Health Department has advised people with diarrhoea to use oral rehydration solutions to prevent dehydration and seek medical attention if symptoms persist.

Kerala records sharp rise in cases

Kerala recorded major shigellosis outbreaks earlier this year, particularly in June and July. Authorities reported more than 225 cases and six deaths in Kozhikode, Malappuram and Wayanad during the period. Officials declared outbreaks in Kozhikode, Wayanad, Malappuram, Thrissur and Alappuzha, while other districts also reported individual cases.

As of August 18, Kerala had recorded 441 confirmed cases, 106 probable cases and eight deaths linked to shigellosis in 2026. The State reported 133 cases and no deaths in 2025.

Health officials have stressed the importance of safe drinking water, proper food handling and hand hygiene to limit the spread of the infection.