Primary prevention

Infected food handlers are the most likely source of contamination by Shigella. Therefore, basic hygiene measures, together with good personal hygiene, contribute to preventing the spread of shigellosis, especially in institutions or camps during natural disasters.[5][13][19]​​​ Food or water that may have been contaminated should be avoided. Chlorinated, boiled, or bottled water should be used if there are concerns regarding contamination, and food should be well cooked.[5][13] Using barriers during sex and practising good sexual hygiene reduces the risk of transmission through the fecal-oral route.[20]​​ Vaccination is in developmental stages.[21]

Secondary prevention

Shigellosis is a reportable disease in the US, the UK, and most countries in the world. CDC: national notifiable infectious diseases surveillance system Opens in new window[13][22][24]​ Disease notification aids surveillance measures to limit spread and prevent epidemics. In some situations (such as during outbreaks), antibiotics may be indicated for Shigella infection to reduce the risk of transmission.[35]​ 

Basic hygiene measures, including strict hand washing and avoidance of likely contaminated food and water, are useful to prevent spread or reinfection among family members or cohabitants.[5]​​[13][19] Sexual activities should be avoided while symptomatic and for up to 7 days after symptoms have stopped. Organisms in stool may continue to shed for up to 6 weeks, so fecal-oral contact during sex should be avoided for this period of time.[22][33]​​​

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