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What is dysentery?
Dysentery is a serious intestinal infection characterized by inflammation of the colon, causing severe diarrhea accompanied by blood and mucus in the stool. There are two main types of dysentery: amoebic dysentery, caused by the parasite Entamoeba histolytica, and bacillary dysentery, caused by bacteria, notably Shigella species. This disease can be contracted by ingesting contaminated food or water, or by direct contact with infected objects.
How is dysentery transmitted?
Dysentery is transmitted mainly via the feco-oral route. This can occur through the consumption of water or food contaminated with bacteria or parasites. Poor hygiene practices, such as inadequate hand washing after using the toilet or before handling food, also increase the risk of spreading the condition.
What are the symptoms of dysentery?
Symptoms of dysentery typically include:
It's crucial to consult a healthcare professional if these symptoms appear, especially if the diarrhea is bloody.
How is dysentery diagnosed?
The diagnosis of dysentery is generally confirmed by stool analysis. These tests detect the presence of parasites, pathogenic bacteria or their toxins. Additional tests may include blood tests and, in some cases, colonoscopy to examine the condition of the colon in greater detail.
What treatments are available for dysentery?
Treatment depends on the type of dysentery. For amoebic dysentery, antiparasitic drugs such as metronidazole are used. For bacillary dysentery, specific antibiotics may be prescribed to eliminate the bacterial infection. Good hydration is essential. Oral rehydration solutions or, in severe cases, intravenous hydration, are essential to prevent dehydration.
How can dysentery be prevented?
Dysentery can be prevented by adopting good hygiene practices:
Is it possible to develop immunity to dysentery?
No, it is not possible to develop complete immunity to dysentery. Even after an infection, a person can be reinfected if re-exposed to the pathogen. This is due to the variability of bacterial and parasitic strains that can cause the disease. However, careful attention to hygiene can greatly reduce the risk of re-infection.
How common is dysentery worldwide?
Dysentery is more common in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in developing countries where sanitary conditions and access to drinking water are often inadequate. It is particularly prevalent in overcrowded areas and among populations with inadequate water treatment and sanitation systems. Continued public health efforts are needed to reduce the prevalence of this disease.
Are children more susceptible to dysentery?
Yes, children, especially those under the age of five, are particularly vulnerable to dysentery. As their immune systems are not yet fully developed, they are more likely to contract infections and suffer serious complications if infected. It's crucial to monitor their hygiene rigorously, especially in high-risk environments.
What's the difference between dysentery and ordinary diarrhea?
The main difference between dysentery and ordinary diarrhea is the presence of blood and mucus in the stool, which is characteristic of dysentery. In addition, dysentery is often accompanied by severe abdominal pain, fever and a sense of urgency to evacuate, whereas diarrhea may be milder and without these additional symptoms. Dysentery requires immediate medical intervention to avoid complications.
Are there any vaccines against dysentery?
At present, there is no widely available, effective vaccine against dysentery. Research continues, however, with the aim of developing vaccines, especially against the most virulent strains of Shigella, one of the most common pathogens of bacillary dysentery. In the meantime, prevention remains focused on improving sanitary conditions and hygiene practices.
