Shigella is a bacteria that causes a severe diarrhea illness called "dysentery."  Shigella is one of the most efficient disease-producing bacteria known.  Less than 200 bacterial cells can cause a full-blown infection.  The symptoms of shigella infection (a.k.a., shigellosis) are bloody diarrhea, fever, and crampy abdominal pain.  Some children may have seizures related to a toxin produced by the bacteria or a high fever (febrile seizure).  Like other diarrhea illnesses, shigella can cause severe dehydration in children.  Shigella infection will resolve without medicines, however an antibiotic is typically prescribed to prevent spread of the infection to family members and other close contacts.

What causes Shigella gastroenteritis? 

Shigella infection is caused by shigella bacteria (i.e., Shigella flexneri, Shigella sonnei, or Shigella dysenteriae).  It is one of the most virulent (virulent = ability to cause disease) bacteria known.  Less than 200 bacterial cells can cause infection.  Shigella is spread from person-to-person by touching stool-contaminated objects or by touching the skin of an infected person (i.e., shaking hands).  Shigella can survive in food or water sources for several months.

What are the symptoms of Salmonella gastroenteritis? 

• Diarrhea (often with blood)
• Painful abdominal cramping
• Seizures (in some cases)
• Fever

How long does it take to get Salmonella gastroenteritis after being exposed? 

Usually between 6 and 48 hours. 

Red Flags (seek medical care immediately)

• Severe or persistent symptoms
• Blood in stool
• Unable to eat or drink liquids (especially in young children and infants)
• High fever
• Paleness
• Lethargy
• Vomiting 

Are there tests for Shigella gastroenteritis? 

Yes.  The best test is a stool culture.  A stool sample is taken to a laboratory that can determine if the bacteria is present.

Blood tests may be necessary to determine if the infection is severe. White blood cell count may be high or low.  There is often a "left shift" in the white blood cell count.  This means there are more "band"-type neutrophils, signifying an active infection.

Treatment 

Most cases of shigella gastroenteritis will resolve without treatment.  Antibiotics are typically prescribed, mostly to prevent spread of the illness to other people.  Family members of an infected person are at high risk for contracting the infection also.

Prevention 

• Proper hand washing
• Infected children should be kept out of school or daycare until the diarrhea resolves
• Children who had close contact with an infected individual should seek medical care if they develop symptoms, otherwise testing or treatment is usually not necessary