Antibiotic-resistant Stomach Infection Spread Via Sex Confirmed in Louisiana

(KMDL-FM) Officials with Louisiana's Department of Health, along with the Centers for Disease Control, are monitoring the progress of what appears to be another "superbug" in the making. More and more health officials are using that term to describe an infection that is becoming harder and harder to treat with known protocols. In some cases, the bacteria or virus has become resistant to the medicines used to treat it.

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The current "superbug" that is drawing the attention of the medical community is called Shigellosis. It is caused by the Shigella bacteria. Medical professionals and emergency room physicians are finding that this bacterium is becoming harder and harder to treat, as the strain appears to have developed significant resistance to current treatment plans.

Cases of Shigellosis Are Higher This Year Than Last Year in Louisiana

Not all cases of Shigellosis are the 'superbug' variety, but the CDC estimates that about half of them are. That means some 200,000+ cases across the nation right now. The number appears to be growing because the disease is highly contagious.

One of the more common ways it is spread from one person to another is via sexual contact. Unfortunately, one of the major symptoms of a Shigellosis infection is severe diarrhea. This would probably put an end to any thoughts of sexual encounters. Or, at least it should.

READ MORE: Flesh-Eating Bacteria Cases in Louisiana

Case rates in Louisiana are currently below the national average, but there are concerns that case counts could grow. As of the most recent report from the CDC, Louisiana has already confirmed more cases of the disease in 2026 than were reported in all of 2025, and we still have two and a half months left in the year.

How Long Does a Shigellosis Infection Last?

boy lying on beige recliner hospital bed

Symptoms of the disease usually begin within one to two days after infection. The malady and its symptoms generally last one week or less. Diarrhea and gastric pain are the most prominent symptoms. Should you experience symptoms, it is suggested that you visit a healthcare professional to seek treatment.

READ MORE: Lingering Effects of Previous Explosive Diarrhea Bug

Dehydration is a major concern with this kind of illness, so fluid intake and proper nutrition will need to be monitored for anyone who suspects they might be infected. Perhaps a few days' rest with some good movies would be in order. Or, you could watch these hell raisers.