Shigellosis is most common in young children Anyone can get shigellosis, but those who may be at greater risk include children in day care centers and their parents, foreign travelers to certain countries, institutionalized people, and men who have sex with other men. People get shigellosis from other people Shigella germs are present in the stool of infected humans. The germ is spread to the mouth of other people either by direct contact with an infected person's stool or by eating or drinking contaminated food or water. Primates, which are the only animals that develop shigellosis, are rarely a source of human infection. After using the toilet After changing diapers After touching any stool-soiled material Before fixing any food or drink, and Before eating Help young children to wash their hands.
Most people recover on their own.
Some may require fluids or antibiotics. Foodhandlers, health care and day care workers, children in day care, or persons in the family of such people who have shigellosis should contact their local health department to get specific recommendations.