KOZHIKODE: Shigella infections have been steadily climbing across Kerala since January this year, with Kozhikode recording the highest number of cases in the state. Health department data shows that Kerala has reported 135 confirmed Shigella cases so far in 2026, with Kozhikode alone accounting for 68 infections. Of the three Shigella-related deaths reported, two were from Kozhikode.
The third death involved a 54-year-old woman from Malappuram who had been undergoing treatment at Kozhikode Government Medical College Hospital. Laboratory confirmation of Shigella infection was received only after her death.
Officials reported that 12 confirmed cases have been detected in the district during June alone. The latest case was identified in Payyoli, where a 9-year-old boy from ward 13 of Thuravoor panchayat tested positive for Shigella. Health officials said the child remains in satisfactory condition.
The diagnosis comes shortly after the boy’s three-and-a-half-year-old relative was also infected with the bacteria. The younger child has since recovered and been discharged from hospital.
Meanwhile, doctors at the medical college revealed that four children are currently receiving treatment in the ICU due to the infection, with the condition of two remaining critical. Beyond Kozhikode, neighbouring districts are also witnessing a rise in infections.
Wayanad has reported 16 confirmed cases, while Malappuram continues to remain under close monitoring following multiple infections and the recent fatality. Three additional cases were confirmed recently from Kollam and Thrissur.
Contaminated water source detected in Malappuram
Food safety authorities have ordered the closure of a tender coconut parlour in Tirurangadi, Malappuram, after laboratory analysis detected the presence of Shigella bacteria in a water sample collected from the establishment. Authorities are investigating possible foodborne transmission routes after traces of Shigella bacteria were reportedly detected in a food sample collected from a private bakery operating within the Kattakada KSRTC Complex in Thiruvananthapuram