Shigella food poisoning: what to know

Shigella spreads when tiny amounts of infected stool reach food, water, hands, or surfaces and are then swallowed. Food poisoning caused by Shigella may produce Diarrhoea, Abdominal Pain, Fever, Nausea, or Vomiting. Stools can sometimes contain blood or mucus. Symptoms can overlap with other infections, so a clinician may need details about food, water, close contacts, travel, and the illness pattern; testing can help guide treatment. Do not use leftover antibiotics or medicines intended to stop bowel movements without medical advice.

Drink frequent small amounts of water or Oral Rehydration Therapy and rest. Wash hands carefully after using the toilet and before eating, clean high-touch bathroom surfaces, and avoid preparing food for others while symptoms continue. Do not share towels. A clinician can advise whether treatment is needed and whether work, school, or food handling should be paused. If oral fluids are not enough, IV Fluid Therapy may be used in medical care.

Get urgent help for bloody diarrhoea, severe abdominal pain, fainting, confusion, very little urine, marked weakness, or inability to keep fluids down. Arrange prompt medical assessment for fever with diarrhoea, worsening symptoms, or illness in a young child, older adult, pregnant person, or someone with reduced immunity. Dehydration can become serious when diarrhoea and vomiting continue.

Ask whether a stool test is appropriate, which fluids to use, whether medicine is needed, and when you can safely return to food handling or close-contact activities. Mention blood or mucus, fever, recent meals, travel, household illness, and your ability to urinate.