T’puram: The food safety department and health authorities have seized a drink found to be contaminated with Shigella bacteria from a bakery in Kattakada, Thiruvananthapuram, following the confirmation of a local infection case, triggering intensified surveillance in the area. The shop close to the Kattakada KSRTC bus station has been shut down until further notice.The contamination was detected during an investigation launched by the health department after a person from Kattakada tested positive for Shigella infection. Samples collected from the bakery were sent for laboratory analysis, which reportedly confirmed the presence of the bacteria in a drink sold at the establishment. Authorities subsequently seized the contaminated stock and initiated further action against the outlet.Officials are examining whether the contaminated food item was linked to the infection and have stepped up inspections of food establishments in the locality. Health workers have also begun tracing possible contacts and monitoring individuals who may have been exposed to the bacteria.The development comes as the state remains on high alert over a rise in Shigella cases reported from several districts, including Thiruvananthapuram, Wayanad and Kollam. Recent cases have been reported from Thonnakkal, Chakkai and Puthenthope in the capital district, while health authorities have intensified disease surveillance and sanitation measures statewide.
