Health experts have highlighted the seven most common symptoms of a sexually transmitted infection that affects the gut, after a rise in cases in England. Some 2,560 Shigella infections were recorded in 2025, up from 2,052 in 2023 and 2,318 in 2024. It predominantly affects gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men.
Shigella is a gut infection spread through bacteria found in faeces. In a blog post, the UK Health Security Agency described it as “more common than many people realise”. The five most common symptoms are diarrhoea (which can be bloody), stomach cramps, fever, nausea and vomiting. Some people also experience headaches and loss of appetite.
The UKHSA post added: “Symptoms typically begin one to three days after exposure, though it can take up to a week to feel unwell.
“Most people recover within four to five days, but illness can last up to two weeks. In some cases, particularly with certain species of Shigella, symptoms can be more severe and may require hospital treatment.”
Steps such as washing hands after sex, showering, and changing condoms between anal and oral sex can reduce the risk of infection.
Shigella bacteria can also be spread by eating food prepared by an infected person or through 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.”
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