Keralam Health Dept. detects nine Shigella cases in Malappuram

SOCIAL – HEALTH

10 NOVEMBER 2026

• The Keralam Health Department has stepped up preventive measures in Malappuram district following an outbreak of Shigella infection, with nine cases confirmed so far.
• Cleaning operations, including super-chlorination of wells and houses in the affected areas, are under way.
• The family health centre at Elamkulam, near Perinthalmanna, formed a special squad to conduct house-to-house surveillance and create awareness about the infection.
• Shigella is a diarrhoeal disease marked by fever, abdominal cramps, and bloody diarrhoea (dysentery).
• The outbreak came to light after more than 100 people who attended a wedding at Elamkulam on October 31 reported symptoms.
• Extensive testing was conducted following the reports.
• The Health department has advised people to seek medical attention immediately if they develop symptoms and avoid self-medication.