Kerala records 29 shigellosis cases in 2026; health experts urge strict hygiene

Key facts

• Kerala has reported 29 confirmed shigellosis cases and one death caused by Shigella bacteria in 2026, with 15 cases recorded in March alone.
• The recent death of a child in Kozhikode prompted health authorities to emphasise preventive measures.
• District Medical Officer R. Shahirsha advised drinking only boiled water and consuming fresh, hot food to curb water-borne transmission during summer.
• Dr. Minu Mohan, Assistant Professor, Department of Community Medicine, Government Medical College, Kalamassery, stated that shigellosis spreads via the faecal-oral route through contaminated water or food.
• Dr. G. Sathyajith Nair, secretary, Indian Academy of Paediatrics (Kochi branch), warned that vacation-season consumption of outside food and water increases infection risk.
• Dr. Rajeev Jayadevan, convenor, Indian Medical Association’s research cell, highlighted that children below five face higher risks of complications such as kidney failure, seizures, or anaemia.