July 11th 2023.
Australians have been warned about a new gastro bug that can be spread through sex. Victoria's Chief Health Officer, Brett Sutton, warned on Tuesday that there is an increasing antibiotic resistance being detected in infections caused by Shigella bacteria.
This type of gastroenteritis, called Shigellosis, can cause acute onset of diarrhea, fever, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps. It is particularly high among returning travellers and men who have had recent sexual contact with other men. Symptoms usually take 1-3 days to appear, but could be as early as 12 hours or as late as a week later.
Antibiotic resistance is a serious public health problem as it makes infections harder to treat. People with Shigellosis remain contagious for up to four weeks, and the infection will usually last around 5-7 days. However, some people may experience serious complications such as reactive arthritis and sepsis if they are immunocompromised. In order to treat it, fluids, oral rehydration drinks, and antibiotics are usually prescribed, although the new strains of the infection are resistant to antibiotics.
Victoria Health is contact tracing confirmed cases in order to provide advice and help on symptom monitoring, testing, and exclusion requirements. People who work in professions such as food handling, aged care, childcare, and healthcare should not return to work until they are advised to do so by the Local Public Health Units.
Practicing safer sex and good hygiene are the best ways to prevent the spread of Shigellosis. It is important for Australians to be aware of this new infection and take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
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