Nine Shigella cases confirmed in Malappuram; Health dept. steps up preventive measures

MALAPPURAM The 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.

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, and more people were placed under surveillance. In a separate development, a four-year-old girl from Fifth Mile in Amarambalam panchayat, Nilambur, tested positive for Shigella.

Following this, the Health department imposed restrictions on evening tea shops and street food stalls in the area. Inspections will also be extended to all food establishments in the panchayat.