Nine Shigella cases confirmed in Malappuram; Health dept. steps up preventive measures

The Health department has stepped up preventive measures in Malappuram district following an outbreak of Shigella infection, with nine cases confirmed so far.

Cleaning operations, including super-chlorination of wells and houses in the affected areas, are under way. The family health centre at Elamkulam, near Perinthalmanna, formed a special squad to conduct house-to-house surveillance and create awareness about the infection.

The outbreak came to light after more than 100 people who attended a wedding at Elamkulam on October 31 reported symptoms. Extensive testing was conducted following the reports, and more people were placed under surveillance.

In a separate development, a four-year-old girl from Fifth Mile in Amarambalam panchayat, Nilambur, tested positive for Shigella. Following this, the Health department imposed restrictions on evening tea shops and street food stalls in the area. Inspections will also be extended to all food establishments in the panchayat.

Apart from those who attended the wedding, the confirmed cases include the four-year-old girl who ate snacks from a shop at Amarambalam and two people who had mandi from a restaurant at Palunda, Nilambur.

The food outlets suspected of being linked to the outbreak have been temporarily closed by the authorities. Two infected people are undergoing treatment at Perinthalmanna and Nilambur taluk hospitals.

The Health department has advised people to seek medical attention immediately if they develop diarrhoea or other symptoms and avoid self-medication. People have also been asked to drink plenty of ORS solution and boiled and cooled rice gruel to prevent dehydration.

Health officials advised people to drink only boiled and cooled water and consume clean food served hot.