Gay men in Birmingham are coming under threat from a sexually transmitted infection (STI) called shigella.
Data from the UKHSA has detected a rise in cases of the antibiotic-resistant STI which is seen mainly in MSM (men who have sex with men).
Between 1 September 2021 and 10 January 2022, 47 cases were reported compared to 16 cases between 1 April 2020 and 31 August 2021. Recent cases are also showing an increase in antibiotic resistance.
Outbreaks of the infection are associated with the transmission of other sexually transmitted infections such as syphilis, HIV and hepatitis C.
Most common symptoms of shigella include a self-limiting diarrhoea which is unpleasant but not serious however, MSM with HIV will experience more serious symptoms including sepsis and may need medical support and even hospital admission.
Dr Daniel Richardson, Professor of Sexual Health and HIV medicine, said: “During outbreaks it is important MSM are tested and have a full sexual health screen as well as an assessment of their diarrhoea.”
Drug resistance to shigella has occurred due to overuse of antibiotics in the past and according to Dr Richardson, diarrhoea will likely get better on its own and in some cases, antibiotics may make symptoms worse.
The professor added: “It’s really important that we change attitudes towards antibiotics amongst the public and doctors, we need to prevent further resistance.”
Patients with symptoms should go to a GUM or sexual health clinic for testing and advice. “It’s important that we increase awareness of shigella amongst the public and GP’s in England, especially given the recent outbreak,” said Dr Daniel Richardson.
Anyone showing symptoms should avoid sex until 48 hours after the diarrhoea has stopped and practice good hand hygiene, especially after handling food.