Warning: Severe Dysentery Outbreak

Diarrhea, loss of appetite, weakness, vomiting, high fever, and abdominal pain—if your child is complaining about these symptoms (or some of them), it's possible they have contracted dysentery. A disease commonly found in children throughout the year but especially prevalent during this summer period.

Every summer, there is an increase in the diagnosis of the Shigella bacteria, which causes dysentery. This year, the Ministry of Health reported a significant rise in illness due to the presence of this bacteria.

According to last week's report from the Ministry of Health, over 300 cases of children infected with the Shigella bacteria have been recorded so far. It is estimated that an additional 500 children have been infected without official reporting to the authorities. According to the Ministry of Health, the main areas where the infection has been observed are Jerusalem and Ashkelon.

The illness primarily affects preschool children up to the age of 4. As the disease is highly contagious, it can spread among children in kindergartens, camps, and various frameworks. In simple cases, it resolves within a few days, but in extreme and severe cases, the bacteria can affect the nervous system and cause actual damage.

The infection can be minimized by adhering to basic hygiene rules, such as thoroughly washing hands with water and soap. Additionally, avoid sending a sick child to camp to prevent infecting other children. In light of the widespread infection these days, the Ministry of Health has issued a public call to adhere to hygiene rules to prevent the spread of the virus.