Prevention & Control

Currently, there is no vaccine to prevent shigellosis. However, you can reduce your risk of getting shigellosis by:

• Carefully washing your hands with soap during key times:
  • Before eating.
  • After changing a diaper or helping to clean another person who has defecated (pooped).
• If you care for a child in diapers who has shigellosis, promptly discard the soiled diapers in a lidded, lined garbage can, and wash your hands and the child’s hands carefully with soap and water immediately after changing the diapers. Any leaks or spills of diaper contents should be cleaned up immediately.
  • Safe & Healthy Diapering in the Home
  • Diaper-Changing Steps for Childcare Settings
• Avoid swallowing water from ponds, lakes, or untreated swimming pools.
• When traveling internationally, follow food and water precautions strictly and wash hands with soap frequently. For more information, see Travelers' Health – Food and Water Safety.
• Avoid sexual activity with those who have diarrhea or who recently recovered from diarrhea.