Archive · 21 Aug 2026
Shigellosis Cases Rise in Kerala as Child Hospitalised
Shigellosis is an infection caused by bacteria called Shigella.
It can cause diarrhoea, stomach pain, fever and weakness.
The infection spreads when tiny amounts of infected stool get into food, water, hands or surfaces.
A 3-year-old girl in Kerala was hospitalized after becoming sick with diarrhoea and vomiting.
Her infection was confirmed on August 18, 2026.
Reports also described cases in several other parts of Kerala.
Most people recover in five to seven days, but young children can sometimes become seriously ill.
Drinking safe water, eating clean food and washing hands can help prevent the infection.
People with diarrhoea should avoid preparing food for others.
A 3-year-old girl from Kottukal in Thiruvananthapuram was admitted to SAT Hospital with confirmed shigellosis.
The child’s infection was confirmed on August 18, 2026, after diarrhoea and vomiting began following a family trip to Nagercoil.
The family reportedly consumed beverages from a roadside vendor during the trip on August 12.
Another case was reported in Vizhinjam, while scattered cases were reported in Pazhayannur, Kattipara and Noolpuzha.
Health officials urged people to take care with food, water and hygiene to reduce transmission.
- Who
- A 3-year-old girl from Kottukal, along with people affected by reported cases in parts of Kerala.
- What
- Reported shigellosis cases, including the hospitalization of the child at SAT Hospital.
- When
- The child’s infection was confirmed on August 18, 2026; she travelled on August 12 and developed symptoms the following day.
- Where
- Kottukal and other locations in Kerala, including Vizhinjam, Pazhayannur, Kattipara and Noolpuzha; the child travelled to Nagercoil.
- Why
- Shigellosis is caused by swallowing Shigella bacteria, potentially through contaminated food, beverages, water, hands or surfaces; the child reportedly consumed roadside beverages before becoming ill.
- Infection
- Shigellosis is an intestinal infection caused by Shigella bacteria.
- Latest reported patient
- A 3-year-old girl from Kottukal in Thiruvananthapuram district.
- Hospital
- SAT Hospital.
- Confirmation date
- August 18, 2026.
- Reported locations
- Vizhinjam, Pazhayannur, Kattipara and Noolpuzha, in addition to Kottukal.
- Common symptoms
- Diarrhoea, fever, stomach pain, frequent urges to pass stool and weakness.
- Typical recovery
- Many people recover in about five to seven days, sometimes without antibiotics.
- Possible complications
- Dehydration, bloodstream infections, reactive arthritis and, occasionally, seizures in young children.