Nine cases of Shigella confirmed in Malappuram; Health Dept. strengthens preventive measures

The Health Department has tightened precautionary measures in Malappuram district following an outbreak of Shigella infection, with nine cases confirmed so far.

Cleanup work is underway, including superchlorination of wells and homes in the affected areas. A family health center in Elamkulam near Perinthalmanna has formed a special unit 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 in Elamkulam on October 31 reported symptoms. Based on the reports, extensive testing was conducted 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 Ministry of Health has 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.

Apart from those who attended the wedding, the confirmed cases include a four-year-old girl who ate snacks from a shop in Amarambalam and two people who had mandi from a restaurant in Palunda in Nilambur.

Authorities have temporarily closed food stores suspected of being linked to the epidemic. Two infected people are undergoing treatment at Perinthalmanna and Nilambur taluk hospitals.

The Ministry of Health advised people to seek medical help immediately if they develop diarrhea or other symptoms and to avoid self-medication. People were also asked to drink a lot of ORS solution and boiled and cooled rice porridge to prevent dehydration.

Health officials advised people to drink only boiled and cooled water and eat clean food served warm.

Published – 9 Nov 2026 20:17 IST