Shigella species

Precautions

Contact Precautions
Contact Precautions

General Information

Pathogen information

Aerobic gram negative rod

Epidemiology

  • Human/animal reservoir

  • Contaminated water

  • Often travel related

  • Outbreaks - e.g. Daycare

Associated syndromes

  • Infectious colitis - dysenteric

  • HUS

  • Reactive Arthritis

  • Bacteremia

  • Intra-abdominal abscess

Additional Information

Most require treatment.

Lab will provide sensitivity results.

The CDC has put forward a concern about increased number of Shigella isolates that test within the susceptible range for ciprofloxacin (MIC 0.12-1mg/L) but harbour one or more resistance mechanisms.

CDC is concerned about the potential for clinical failures with fluoroquinolone treatment.

Suggest consult with lab director/pharmacy or antimicrobial stewardship team.

Food handlers require proof of clearance before return to work.