III.

Bacillary Dysentery

Bacillary dysentery is caused by certain nonmotile bacteria of the genus Shigella. This form of dysentery is also most prevalent in unhygienic areas of the Tropics, but, because it is easily spread, sporadic outbreaks are common in all parts of the world. This dysentery is usually self-limiting and rarely manifests the more severe organ involvements characteristic of amoebic dysentery. Bacillary dysentery is spread by contaminated water, milk, and food. Feces from active cases and those from healthy carriers as well contain immense numbers of the disease-producing bacteria. Flies carry the bacteria on their feet or in their saliva and feces and deposit them on food; ants are also believed to spread the disease.

In the treatment of bacillary dysentery, proper replacement of fluid is important. Sulfonamides, tetracycline, and streptomycin were effective in curing acute cases until drug-resistant strains emerged. Chloramphenicol is sometimes used to treat these strains. Quinolones such as norfloxacin and ciprofloxacin are also effective against Shigella infection.