Dysentery Outbreak

Dysentery is all over the news these past few weeks. Reports of outbreak in some parts of the country are alarming. It is just important that all be fully aware of what this is, its causes, treatment and prevention.

Dysentery is not a disease but a symptom of a potentially deadly illness. The term refers to any case of infectious bloody diarrhea. Most of the victims live in developing areas with poor sanitation. Dysentery is the body’s response to an unwanted visitor in the digestive system. The possible culprits include a parasitic amoeba called Entamoeba histolytica or a number of bacteria, including salmonella and shigella.

Anybody with bloody diarrhea needs immediate medical help. Treatment often starts with an oral rehydrating solution to prevent dehydration. If shigella is suspected, the doctor will prescribe antibiotics, such as ciprofloxacin or Bactrim. Amebic dysentery usually calls for a two-pronged attack. Treatment should start with a 10-day course of the antimicrobial drug metronidazole.

Good hygiene and a little common sense are the keys to avoiding dysentery. If you’re visiting or living in an area with poor sanitation, be especially wary of the water. In many areas, the only safe beverages are boiled water, canned or bottled sodas, beer, wine, and tea and coffee. The food can be as risky as the water. You should be especially suspicious of salads, uncooked fruits and vegetables, unpasteurized milk, raw meat, shellfish, and any foods sold by street vendors. In general, fruits that you peel yourself and hot meals are safer choices.

If you have the infection, you can protect others around you by washing your hands regularly with soap and water, especially after using the toilet, after changing diapers, and before preparing food.