What are common symptoms of Shigella spp. infection?

The symptoms of a Shigella spp. infection prominently include diarrhea, which may be bloody, accompanied by abdominal cramps. Shigella is a bacteria that causes shigellosis, a highly contagious form of gastroenteritis. The diarrhea is a key symptom as the body tries to expel the pathogens rapidly. Abdominal cramps occur as a result of inflammation in the intestines, leading to discomfort. These symptoms are critical indicators of the infection and often guide healthcare professionals in diagnosing and treating the illness effectively. Other options, while they may represent symptoms related to different illnesses, do not specifically align with the hallmark indicators of a Shigella spp. infection.