Beware of the Shigella!

The “Shigella” is a bacterium (germ) that can cause diseases. The bacteria is found in the stool/excrement (bowel movement) of an infected person.  It is a gender of bacillus-shaped bacteria Gram negative, immobile, no spore-forming and incapable to ferment the lactose. It was discovered 115 years ago by the Japanese scientist Kiyoshi Shiga, from whom it took his name.

What are the symptoms?

The disease usually appears 1-3 days after being exposed to the bacteria. It takes up to 7 days to get sick and can be mild or severe. Some infected people do not get sick at all, but even then, they can infect others. The patient presents the following symptoms: stomach pain, diarrhea (often bloody), fever, nausea and vomiting. 

How can I avoid getting shigella?
Wash your hands with soap and water especially before using the bathroom, after changing diapers, and before handling food or eating.

Source: http://es.wikipedia.org