What Are the Characteristics of Shigella?

Shigella is a type of bacteria that causes shigellosis, an infection of the intestinal lining. Shigella sonnei, also known as "group D" Shigella, causes most shigella infections in the United States.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of a Shigella infection include abdominal pain, fever, rectal pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

Time Frame

• Symptoms generally develop from one to seven days after contracting a Shigella infection.

Treatment

• Treatment of shigellosis includes antibiotics and drinking fluids to prevent dehydration.

Transmission

• Shigella bacteria can be transmitted through contaminated food, water, flies or sexual activity.

Prevention

• Prevent shigellosis by washing your hands carefully, disposing of soiled diapers properly and drinking only boiled or treated water when travelling.