An outbreak of the gut infection shigella in Victoria has prompted health authorities to issue a warning to gay men to take extra precautionary measures in their sexual practices.

Shigella is an infectious bacteria that causes a bowel infection. “Shigella is characterized by diarrhoea, which may contain blood and mucus, fever, nausea, vomiting and abdominal cramps,” said Department of Human Services Chief Health Officer, Dr John Carnie.

“The illness usually lasts between four to seven days, but may be more severe and prolonged in people with low immune systems.”

The infection occurs when small particles of contaminated faeces enter the mouth. “Transmission of shigella to others can be reduced by handwashing with soap and water after using the toilet, after any sexual contact, particularly sex involving rimming and other oral-anal practices, and before preparing food,” Carnie said.

“Following ingestion of the bacteria, it usually takes between one and three days before becoming ill. Cases remain infectious during the acute stages of the illness and until the bacteria are no longer present in the faeces, usually within four weeks after illness.” Carnie advised anyone experiencing symptoms to consult their doctor.

“Appropriate antibiotic treatment usually reduces the length of time people can pass on the infection,” he said. People with HIV/AIDS are more likely to have severe symptoms, which may result in a prolonged illness and even hospitalization.

People who work in food-handling professions are legally required not to work while they have the infection. Cases have also been reported in NSW and Queensland.








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