Treatment for Shigellosis

Treatment for Shigellosist

In most cases of Shigellosis, the infection is mild and does not require intense medical treatment, like an antibiotic therapy

The primary focus of Shigella treatment is to replenish the loss of body fluids by giving oral rehydration salt solution. Sometimes intravenous fluid administration may be required.

Young children, older individuals, the immunosuppresed and severely infected persons with bacillary dysentery may require an antibiotic therapy comprising mostly of the following drugs-

• Ampicillin
• Co-trimoxazole
• Tetracycline
• Ciprofloxacin
• Fluoroquinolones

Anti-diarrheal agents are best avoided, as they are likely to worsen the illness. It is better to consult a doctor in case of Shigella infection.