Kerala Steps Up Shigella Watch

Kerala has tightened health surveillance after a four-year-old girl from Kozhikode died following a Shigella infection, while fresh cases among children in Wayanad triggered wider monitoring across the state.

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 showed symptoms are being monitored closely, while a medical team from Kozhikode has been sent to Wayanad to support local health authorities. The government has also directed food safety officials to inspect restaurants and public food points as a precautionary step.

Why Officials Are Cautious

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

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

Public Safety Measures

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