Health Department Intensifies Surveillance as Fresh Shigella Cases Emerge Across Multiple Districts
Kerala has reported two more deaths linked to Shigella infection, taking the total number of fatalities caused by the bacterial disease in the state this year to five, according to health department officials.
The latest victim was seven-year-old Arjav from Pookkottur in Malappuram district, who died on Monday while undergoing treatment at Kozhikode Government Medical College Hospital. The child had been admitted to the hospital on June 12 with symptoms of fever and diarrhoea and was subsequently diagnosed with a Shigella infection.
In another confirmed fatality, a 43-year-old resident of Kodakara in Thrissur district, who passed away on June 13, was found to have died due to the same infection, health officials confirmed.
Four of Five Deaths Reported in June
With the confirmation of these two deaths, Kerala’s Shigella-related death toll for 2026 has reached five. Officials noted that four of these fatalities have been recorded in June alone, indicating a recent rise in the disease burden across the state.
Eight New Cases Reported on Monday
According to data released by the Directorate of Health Services (DHS), eight fresh Shigella cases were reported on Monday from Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Thrissur, Malappuram, Kannur, and Kozhikode districts.
The state has recorded a total of 147 confirmed Shigella cases so far this year, including 71 cases reported during June, highlighting an increase in infections over recent weeks.
What Is Shigella Infection?
Shigella is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the intestines and causes symptoms such as diarrhoea, fever, stomach cramps, nausea, and vomiting. The infection spreads mainly through contaminated food and water, poor sanitation, and direct contact with infected individuals.
Children, elderly individuals, and people with weakened immune systems are considered particularly vulnerable to severe complications arising from the infection.
Kerala Government Strengthens Preventive Measures
In response to the rising number of cases, the Kerala Health Department has intensified surveillance and containment measures across affected regions. Health authorities have been directed to strengthen sanitation practices, monitor drinking water sources, and enhance public awareness regarding hygiene and infection prevention.
The state government has also launched emergency interventions to ensure the safety of drinking water supplies, including chlorination drives, inspection of public wells, and strict monitoring of potential contamination sources.
Health officials have urged the public to maintain proper hand hygiene, consume safe drinking water, and seek immediate medical attention in case of persistent diarrhoea, fever, or other symptoms associated with Shigella infection.
