Cases of antibiotic-resistant Shigella are on the rise in the UK. What health care professionals need to know.
In a recent announcement, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has highlighted a concerning surge in cases of antibiotic-resistant Shigella sonnei infections in the UK, particularly affecting gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM). Since the beginning of 2023, there has been a 53 % increase in cases. Last year 97 cases were reported up to November.
This particular strain poses a challenge for treatment as it does not respond to conventional antibiotics used to combat Shigella. The bacteria are found in feces and can be transmitted through the fecal-oral route during sexual activity or via unwashed hands. The gastrointestinal infection is characterized by symptoms such as diarrhea (sometimes with blood), stomach cramps, and fever. The symptoms typically manifest between 1 and 4 days after exposure and are often mistaken for food poisoning.
“This is a concerning rise in cases of this antibiotic resistant strain, meaning treatment can be very difficult,“ said Dr. Gauri Godbole, Consultant Medical Microbiologist at UKHSA, in a statement. Given the potential exposure to other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, a sexual health screening is recommended for those with Shigella.
While Shigella is highly infectious, symptoms typically subside within a week. However, severe cases may require hospitalization and intravenous antibiotic treatment, with limited effective antibiotic options for this highly resistant strain. Dr. Godbole advised antibiotic treatment for cases with severe symptoms, hospital admissions, prolonged diarrhea (beyond 7 days), or in individuals with underlying immunodeficiency. Those diagnosed with Shigella were urged to prioritize recovery, maintain hydration, and abstain from sexual activity for at least 7 days after the last symptom.
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