TL;DR
- Shigella cases among gay and bi men are rising in the UK.
- Symptoms include diarrhea, cramps, and fever.
- Good hygiene and condom use can reduce risks.
- Regular STI testing is crucial for sexually active men.
- Antibiotic resistance in Shigella strains is increasing.
Hold onto your hats, because there’s a nasty little bug making waves in the LGBTQ community. Shigella, a gut infection that’s spreading like wildfire among gay and bisexual men in England, is on the rise, and health experts are sounding the alarm. With a staggering 2,560 diagnoses reported in 2025 alone, it’s clear this isn’t just a passing fad.
This isn’t your average tummy bug. Shigella is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that’s often mistaken for food poisoning. Symptoms can include diarrhea (sometimes with blood), stomach cramps, and fever. And let’s be real, no one wants to be dealing with that while trying to enjoy life. According to the UK Health Security Agency, the numbers have shot up from 2,052 in 2023 and 2,318 in 2024, with the majority of cases found in men who have sex with men.
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Dr. Katy Sinka, head of the STI section at UKHSA, is waving a big red flag. “The rise in sexually transmitted Shigella cases is concerning, but the risks of catching it can be reduced by good hygiene during and after sex and condom use – helping to protect yourself and your partners,” she warns. And let’s be honest, no one wants to be the one bringing home more than just a cute date.
But wait, there’s more! Those diagnosed with Shigella might also be at risk for other STIs, including HIV. Dr. Sinka emphasizes the importance of not ignoring symptoms and getting tested regularly. “It is important that gay and bisexual men do not dismiss their symptoms,” she says. And who could blame them? Ignoring a potential STI is like ignoring a fire alarm – not the smartest move.
Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: antibiotic resistance. Among the four species of Shigella bacteria, two are becoming increasingly resistant to treatment. A whopping 86% of Shigella sonnei samples and 94% of Shigella flexneri samples are showing resistance. So, if you think you can just pop a pill and be done with it, think again.
So, what should you do if you find yourself on the unfortunate receiving end of a Shigella diagnosis? First things first: rest and stay hydrated. Avoid sex for at least seven days after your last symptom, and steer clear of pools, hot tubs, and preparing food for others while you recover. It’s not a party if you’re feeling like death warmed over.
For those who are sexually active, regular STI testing is essential. Free STI testing is available through sexual health clinics, university medical centers, and even postal self-sampling kits. Don’t wait for a symptom to pop up before you take action!
In a world where knowledge is power, staying informed about your sexual health is the best way to protect yourself and your partners. For more information, check out the NHS website for advice on self-care and preventing dehydration. Remember, darling, a little bit of prevention goes a long way in keeping the fun alive!