France: Children fall ill with shigellosis after visiting petting zoo

Bouches-du-Rhône, France, Health authorities are investigating multiple cases of shigellosis, an intestinal infection causing diarrhea, fever, and abdominal pain, among children in the Bouches-du-Rhône region. The outbreak has prompted the regional health agency and Santé publique France to launch epidemiological investigations to pinpoint the origin.

Preliminary findings point to a petting zoo in Auriol as the likely source of the infections. Several young victims reportedly visited the farm recently through school outings or individual visits. During inspections, hygiene deficiencies were observed at the site, particularly concerning the provision of water for visitors.

The farm has been administratively closed until further notice as a precautionary measure. Shigellosis is caused by bacteria from the Shigella genus and is typically transmitted through contaminated hands, objects, surfaces, or water. It can also spread between individuals in close contact.

Treatment usually involves oral rehydration and antibiotics. However, the emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains complicates treatment, requiring the use of rarer and more expensive drugs. The World Health Organization identifies shigellosis as a leading cause of bloody diarrhea globally, with no approved vaccine currently available.