The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the University of Cambridge have warned that Shigella bacteria, which causes violent diarrhoea and can be sexually transmitted, is becoming a public health threat in the UK. Cases potentially linked to sexual contact surged to 2,560 last year, according to UKHSA data.
Rapid spread among gay and bisexual men
The bacteria, usually found in faeces and contracted through contaminated food or surfaces, is spreading rapidly among some gay and bisexual men. The study, published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases, found that sexually transmitted Shigella strains travel an average of 72 miles (117km) between cases, compared to just 28 miles (46km) for non-sexually transmitted strains. This indicates faster spread within sexual networks.
Antibiotic resistance a major concern
Professor Kate Baker, senior author of the study from Cambridge's Department of Genetics, warned that due to increased antibiotic resistance, 'we're in a situation where it's virtually untreatable with drugs.' The disease kills more than 200,000 people annually worldwide, either from dehydration caused by diarrhoea, intestinal perforation, or malnutrition.
Symptoms and transmission
Symptoms include diarrhoea, cramps, and fever. Shigella can spread from a tiny amount of infected poo if it contacts the mouth, for example through rimming or oral sex after anal sex. An infected person can be infectious for up to a month. The illness can last a week or longer, unlike typical food poisoning.
Call for new prevention strategies
Professor Baker said: 'Sexually transmissible Shigellosis needs to be treated as a distinct public health threat, requiring different surveillance, prevention, and treatment strategies.' She urged people with stomach bug-like symptoms to avoid sex or going out to prevent spread. Current advice includes handwashing and food hygiene, but these are ineffective for sexual transmission.
Risk reduction advice
To minimise risk, health officials recommend washing hands, bottom, groin, and penis after anal sex; changing condoms between anal and oral sex; using latex or non-latex gloves for fingering or fisting; and not sharing sex toys or douching equipment. Men who suspect infection should visit a sexual health clinic or GP for testing.
