Gay and bisexual men at risk as warning issued over rise of Shigella in England
Shigella cases are on the rise (Image: Stock images via Getty Images)
Sexually transmitted Shigella diagnoses in England rose to 2,560 in 2025, with gay and bisexual men among those most affected. Now, the UK Health Security Agency have warned of growing antibiotic resistance in key strains.
In a UKHSA update on drug-resistant Shigella, the agency said 2025 marked a surge compared to the two years prior, with 2,052 and 2,318 cases reported in 2023 and 2024 respectively. Cases were most commonly found in men who have sex with other men.
Shigella is a gut infection which is spread by bacteria found in faeces. It can be transmitted during sex, through direct contact, or via unwashed hands. Symptoms include diarrhoea (sometimes with blood), stomach cramps and fever, with it often mistaken for food poisoning.
READ MORE: Scotland could be first country to end HIV transmission, say leading charities
Dr Katy Sinka, head of the STI section at UKHSA, said: “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 added: “It is important that gay and bisexual men do not dismiss their symptoms and advice on self-care and preventing dehydration can be found on the NHS website by searching Dysentery.”
What the latest figures show
Concerns have also been raised about treatment becoming more difficult. Professionals at the Gastrointestinal Data Warehouse said antibiotic resistance is increasing.
Two Shigella strains showed particularly high resistance: 86% of Shigella sonnei samples and 94% of Shigella flexneri samples.
Testing, screening and recovery advice
Dr Sinka said: “Those diagnosed with Shigella may also have been exposed to other sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, so a sexual health screen – at a clinic or by ordering tests online – is recommended.”
Those diagnosed with Shigella are advised to rest and stay hydrated, avoid sex for seven days after their last symptom, and avoid swimming pools or hot tubs, as well as sharing towels, or preparing food for others while recovering.
Sexual health services, including STI testing and treatment options, are available through clinics and online routes. Wider sexual health messaging has also highlighted progress such as the fall in new HIV diagnoses among gay and bi men in England.
Share your thoughts! Let us know in the comments below, and remember to keep the conversation respectful.
