Shigella

Shigella is a serious form of illness amongst holidaymakers in package holiday hotels abroad. If Shigella is contracted as a result of poor standards of food and hygiene at a package holiday hotel, holidaymakers can claim compensation when they return to the UK with our help.

Anne Thomson, Holiday Claims Expert at Farnworth Rose, says: “Tour operators must never expose holidaymakers to any type of illness including Shigella which is often linked to poor standards of food and hygiene. If you have become ill abroad in a package holiday hotel call me on 080001 54321 or fill in the online claim form.”

What is Shigella?

Shigella is caused by bacteria which infect the digestive system. Shigellosis is caused by the ingestion of Shigella bacteria and even a small number of Shigella bacteria can result in food poisoning. Shigella thrives in the human intestine and this type of bacteria is the third most common pathogen that is transmitted through food.

Causes of Shigella

The main causes of Shigella include:

• The ingestion of faeces which commonly occurs when food handlers don´t wash their hands properly after using the toilet.
• Eating food which has not been cooked, stored or handled correctly.
• Drinking contaminated liquids.

What are the symptoms of Shigella?

Common symptoms of Shigella include diarrhoea, stomach cramps and fever. It is possible to carry Shigella without any signs of illness although faeces can still be contagious.

How long does Shigella last?

Mild cases of Shigella usually clear up within a week but more severe cases can take many weeks or even months to clear up. Holidaymakers who suffer any type of gastric illness should seek urgent medical help, especially if diarrhoea contains blood or mucus.

Can Shigella be prevented?

Shigella can be prevented in package holiday hotels if food handlers:

• Wash their hands frequently in hot, soapy water.
• Never prepare food if they are suffering from stomach illness.
• Avoid cross contamination of food.
• Cook, store and handle all food correctly and at the correct temperatures.
• Never re-heat food more than once.
• Wash fruit and vegetables thoroughly.

How is Shigella treated?

Shigellosis can pass naturally but patients may need fluids to combat dehydration. Antibiotics are occasionally used to treat severe cases of Shigella infection in order to shorten the time it can be carried. Once a patient has been examined, a doctor will advise of the best treatment.