Drug-Resistant Stomach Bug On The Rise: What To Know In RI

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.

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“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.

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While most infections are resolved without treatment, researchers said antibiotics are used for severe illness or to reduce transmission in high-risk settings.

What To Know In Rhode Island

Each year, Shigella causes an estimated 450,000 infections across the United States. The Rhode Island Department of Health does not track exact annual numbers within the state.

Symptoms of Shigellosis typically begin one to two days after exposure to the Shigella bacteria and last five to seven days. Some people experience symptoms from a few days to four or more weeks.

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Most people who have shigellosis have diarrhea, which is sometimes bloody, fever, and abdominal cramps. Some people who have Shigellosis will not have any symptoms.

Anyone can get shigellosis, but it is most common in young children. Those at greater risk for infection include children in childcare centers, individuals living in crowded environments and those with limited access to clean water and toilets, including the homeless.

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The best way to prevent Shigellosis is to practice good hand hygiene.

• Wash your hands with soap and water before eating food or preparing food, after going to the restroom, or changing a diaper.
• Avoid swallowing water from ponds, lakes, or untreated swimming pools.
• When traveling internationally, wash your hands with soap and water, and follow safe food and water guidelines.
• Avoid sexual contact with people who are sick or have recently recovered from Shigellosis (several weeks).

Learn more by visiting the Rhode Island Department of Health.

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