Shigella
Transmission
Shigella is a bacterium that is spread via fecal-oral contact, which means that small amounts of feces must enter the mouth. This can happen by having sex, especially anally or rimming (licking ass), or by not washing your hands properly after using the toilet and then eating or touching your mouth. Shigella doesn't care about gender or identity - if it finds a way in, it can quickly cause problems in the stomach.
Symptoms
Shigella can cause severe stomach illness and symptoms tend to appear quickly, often within 1-3 days of infection. The most common symptoms include:
- diarrhea, which can sometimes be bloody
- Stomach cramps and pain.
- Fever and nausea.
- Fatigue and feeling generally unwell.
Testing
Do you suspect you have Shigella? Then it's time to contact your healthcare provider. The diagnosis is made through a stool sample, where the bacteria can be identified in the laboratory. If you have diarrhea after sexual contact, especially if you have been abroad or had sex without protection, you should get tested.
Treatment
Shigella is a tough bacteria, but it can be treated with antibiotics. It is important to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. The infection can sometimes go away on its own, but it is important to seek medical attention - both to get the right treatment and to reduce the risk of infecting others.
How to protect yourself
Want to avoid Shigella? Here are some tips to keep the bacteria away:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the toilet and before eating.
- Use a condom for anal sex and a lollipop for rimming.
- Avoid sharing sex toys without cleaning them properly.
- If you or your partner have diarrhea, avoid sex until you are fully recovered.
Remember: Good hygiene and safer sex can help you reduce the risk of Shigella and keep yourself and your partners healthy.
