A cluster of Shigella infections has prompted an alert among health authorities in Thrissur, with ten cases reported in the district during the first nine days of October. Seven of the cases, including that of a seven‑month‑old child, were linked to a temple festival in Tholur, where attendees had used water from a temple well for rituals.
The suspected source of the infection has been traced to the temple well, which has now been chlorinated, according to District Medical Officer M. Sujatha. She confirmed that the well was the point of contamination and that all water drawn for the festival had been treated. Health teams have been monitoring the situation closely and have instructed hospitals to respond immediately to any new cases.
All patients who tested positive for Shigella have received treatment, and most have recovered. The remaining patients are also improving. In addition to the Tholur cases, three other Shigella infections were reported from Wadakkanchery, Arimbur and Adat during the same nine‑day period.
The Shigella cluster occurs amid a broader surge in fever cases in the district. Between October 1 and 9, 4,914 people sought treatment for fever, and 39 dengue and four leptospirosis cases were confirmed. Dengue cases have been reported from multiple locations, including migrant labour camps and surrounding areas, while leptospirosis cases came from Pananchery, Pazhayannur, Porkulam and Kuzhur. The DMO urged residents to rest, stay hydrated, eat nutritious food and for vulnerable individuals to take extra precautions and seek medical care promptly. Health officials remain vigilant, urging the public to maintain strict hygiene and safe food and water practices to prevent further transmission.
