U.S. cases of drug-resistant Shigella infections are increasing around the country with no FDA-approved oral treatment available, according to a new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
In a study published April 9 in the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, health officials described the rise of Shigella cases as “a public health threat,” which can cause diarrhea, fever and more.
According to the latest data, of the 17,000 samples tested, the amount found to have drug-resistant Shigella bacteria increased from 0% in 2011 to 8.5% in 2023.
A researcher with the Maryland Department of Health was part of the working group that compiled the CDC study, though exact state-specific numbers in Maryland and elsewhere are not yet known.
“Whereas earlier U.S. outbreaks involved drug-susceptible strains and primarily affected children, national surveillance data indicate that most XDR [drug-resistant] cases occurred among adult men,” the study said. “Approximately one-third of patients were hospitalized.”
Shigella infection can be spread through fecal-oral transmission, sexual contact, or through contaminated food, water, or fomites, according to the CDC.
While most infections are resolved without treatment, researchers said antibiotics are used for severe illness or to reduce transmission in high-risk settings.
Each year, Shigella causes an estimated 450,000 infections across the United States. The Maryland Department of Health does not track exact annual numbers within the state.
According to the Department of Health, Shigella infection can cause diarrhea (sometimes with blood or mucus), stomach cramps, fever, nausea and vomiting.
Symptoms may occur from 1 to 7 days after exposure, but usually occur within 1 to 3 days. Symptoms last an average of 4 to 7 days. Some infected people, especially adults, may not show any symptoms.
Anyone can get shigellosis, but those who may be at greater risk include children in child care centers and their parents, foreign travelers to certain countries, institutionalized people, and men who have sex with men.
Handwashing is the most important way to prevent infection, according to state health officials. Wash your hands with soap and water:
Learn more by visiting the Maryland Department of Health's website.
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