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Sexually Transmitted Diarrhea Surges, Antibiotic Resistance Feared
9 Oct
Summary
- Shigella infections spread via sex increased 15% annually from 2015-2020.
- Drug-resistant Shigella strains rose from 0% in 2011 to 8.5% in 2023.
- Expert warns disease is nearing untreatable status due to antibiotic misuse.
Shigella, a bacterium previously associated with poor hygiene, is now a growing concern due to its spread through sexual contact. Between 2015 and 2020, infections transmitted sexually increased by 15% annually, outpacing other transmission routes like food or travel.
Experts warn that Shigella is becoming increasingly antibiotic-resistant, a trend exacerbated by misuse of these drugs. Drug-resistant strains saw a significant rise, increasing from 0% in 2011 to 8.5% by 2023. This alarming development suggests the disease could soon become difficult or impossible to treat with standard antibiotics.
Symptoms of Shigella infection include bloody diarrhea, stomach pain, fever, and vomiting. While many cases resolve with rest and fluids, those contracted sexually are more likely to require hospitalization, with an average stay of four to five days.
