Shigellosis, what you need to know about the contagious bug that could sweep across Britain this autumn.
The nasty illness, which commonly affects young people, can quickly spread through schools and workplaces. It is an infectious vomiting and diarrhoea bug which is reportedly sweeping the country, leaving families bed-ridden.
Like norovirus – also known as the “winter vomiting bug”, the bug rears it’s ugly head as the colder weather sets in, and is most common in early autumn.
The unpleasant side effects can include painful stomach cramps and high temperatures along with vomiting and diarrhoea. These symptoms usually start around two to five days after infection.
Poor hygiene, such as not washing your hands after the toilet, is a common cause of the bug being passed on according to the NHS, but it can also be spread by direct contact with someone infected, from doorknobs or toilet handles they have touched.
The best way to stop the vomiting bug from spreading is excellent hand hygiene. Be sure to wash your hands, and instruct kids to wash theirs as frequently as they can with soap and water. In addition to this, don’t share towels or flannels, or prepare or serve food for others.
Also be sure to regularly clean toilets with disinfectant by wiping the flush handle, toilet seat, bathroom taps and surfaces.
Dr David Kirrage, consultant with PHE West Midlands Health Protection Team, said: “People who have had diarrhoea should stay away from work or school until they have been free of symptoms for 48 hours.
“If Shigella is suspected, they should not return to school or work until stool samples have been tested and results show samples are free from the infection.
