What are the causes of dysentry?

Dysentery is an intestinal infection characterized by severe diarrhea with blood and mucus in the stools. It is primarily caused by two types of organisms:

1. Bacterial Dysentery:

- Shigella bacteria: The most common cause of bacterial dysentery, particularly in developing countries. Shigella species, such as *Shigella flexneri* and *Shigella sonnei*, invade the intestinal lining, causing inflammation and bloody diarrhea.

2. Parasitic Dysentery:

- *Entamoeba histolytica*: A protozoan parasite that causes amoebic dysentery. Transmission typically occurs through the ingestion of contaminated food or water containing the cysts of the parasite. It invades the intestinal wall, forming ulcers and leading to bloody diarrhea.

Other less common causes of dysentery include:

- Certain strains of Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria

- Salmonella species

- Campylobacter jejuni

Transmission of dysentery usually occurs through the fecal-oral route. These infectious agents can spread through contact with contaminated food, water, surfaces, or direct contact with an infected individual's stool. Poor sanitation, lack of access to clean water, and overcrowding can increase the risk of infection.

Dysentery can also be transmitted during travel to developing regions where access to safe food and water might be limited. It's essential to practice good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing and avoiding consumption of contaminated food and water, when traveling to high-risk areas. Vaccination against certain strains of Shigella is available for use in some regions.