08/14/26 Public Health Education Topic: Shigella

Per CDC

Shigella are bacteria (germs) that cause diarrhea.
The most common ways people get sick are from eating or drinking contaminated food or water and contact with someone who is sick or has recently been sick with Shigella infection.
Shigella can also be spread during sexual activity with a sick person.

Symptoms usually start 1–2 days after infection and last 7 days. Most people with shigellosis experience:

Some groups of people are more likely to get sick with shigellosis than others.
- Children younger than 5 years old are the most likely to get shigellosis, but people of all ages can get the disease. Many outbreaks occur in early care and education settings and schools.
- Travelers to places where water and food may be unsafe and sanitation is poor are more likely to get a Shigella infection. They are also more likely to become sick with types of Shigella that are more difficult to treat.
- Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men* (GBMSM) have factors that put them at increased risk for Shigella infection. Although rates are higher among GBMSM, the risk is present for any sexual activity involving stool exposure.
- People who are experiencing homelessness are at high risk for Shigella infection when there is shigellosis spread in the community. They may face challenges in their living situations that increase the risk for disease transmission, which can result in outbreaks.

You can take steps to avoid getting or spreading Shigella.

Wash your hands with soap and water at key times.
Take care when changing diapers.
Avoid swallowing water while swimming.
When traveling internationally, follow safe food and water habits and clean your hands often.
If you or your partner has been diagnosed with shigellosis, do not have sex for at least two weeks after the diarrhea ends.