In light of a surge in Shigella cases in England, health experts are emphasizing awareness of the seven predominant symptoms of this gut-affecting sexually transmitted infection. Reports indicate that the number of Shigella infections rose to 2,560 in 2025, compared to 2,052 in 2023 and 2,318 in 2024. The infection mainly impacts gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men.

Shigella is transmitted via bacteria present in feces. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has highlighted in a recent blog post that Shigella might be more prevalent than many assume. The infection commonly presents with symptoms such as diarrhea (potentially bloody), stomach cramps, fever, nausea, and vomiting. Additionally, some individuals may experience headaches and a loss of appetite.

The UKHSA further explained that symptoms generally appear within one to three days after exposure, though it’s possible for them to take up to a week to manifest.

“Most individuals recover within four to five days,” the agency noted, “but the illness can persist for up to two weeks. In certain situations, especially with specific Shigella strains, the symptoms can escalate and necessitate hospital care.”

Preventative measures such as washing hands after sexual contact, showering, and changing condoms between anal and oral sex can help lower the risk of contracting the infection.

Shigella can also be transmitted through consuming food prepared by an infected person or coming into contact with contaminated surfaces.

Many people with mild cases of Shigella recover on their own without medication.

In more severe cases, patients are treated with antibiotics, which can shorten the duration of illness, reduce the risk of complications and speed up the clearance of bacteria from the body.

The UKHSA warned that samples of Shigella have shown rising resistance to antibiotics.

Dr Katy Sinka, the agency’s head of STI section, said: “The rise in sexually transmitted Shigella cases is concerning, but the risk can be reduced through good hygiene during and after sex, and by using condoms — helping to protect both yourself and your partners.

“It is important that gay and bisexual men do not dismiss their symptoms, and advice on self-care and preventing dehydration can be found on the NHS website by searching for dysentery.

“Those diagnosed with Shigella may also have been exposed to other sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, so a sexual health screen — at a clinic or by ordering tests online — is recommended.”