CDC issues new warning about an infection more common in gay men
warning about a rise in antibiotic-resistant shigellosis.The infection causes a nasty bout of diarrhea and can be especially problematic for those living with HIV.The agency says that in 2015, all cases of shigellosis reported in the US responded well to antibiotic treatment.
However, last year, around 5% of shigella infections did not respond to the usual medications that fight it.Shigella is an acute gut infection that causes illness, cramping and diarrhea, which is sometimes bloody.
Consuming contaminated food or drink is one way to pick it up. Historically, it was usually seen in children.However, it can often be passed on during sex, especially during rimming or any fecal-oral contact (dirty sex toys, unwashed hands, etc.).
For this reason, in recent years, the CDC has seen a big increase in shigella rates among gay and bisexual men.Related: What is DoxyPEP and should more queer men use it to protect their health?The good news is that shigella will normally pass through your system with or without treatment, but it can take a few days.Doctors advise patients to refrain from sex for up to two weeks after the symptoms disappear.
