Shigella STI on the rise in gay and bisexual men, raising concern among health experts
Among the four species of Shigella bacteria, two are reportedly becoming increasingly resistant to medication
By Aaron Sugg
Gay and bisexual men are among those most affected as sexually transmitted Shigella cases in England continue to rise, with 2,560 diagnoses reported in 2025.
Shigella is a gut infection spread by bacteria found in faeces and can be transmitted during sex, through direct contact, or unwashed hands.
According to the UK Health Security Agency, 2025 saw a surge in reported cases compared with the previous two years: 2,052 in 2023 and 2,318 in 2024, most commonly found in men who have sex with other men.
What are Shigella symptoms?
* Diarrhoea (sometimes with blood)
* Stomach
* Cramps
* Fever
It is often mistaken for food poisoning.
According to professionals at the Gastrointestinal Data Warehouse, antibiotic resistance is increasing, raising concern among health experts.
Dr Katy Sinka, head of 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.”
“It is important that gay and bisexual men do not dismiss their symptoms” – Dr Katy Sinka advising testing for Shigella
She continued: “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.”
“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,” Sinka advised.
Among the four species of Shigella bacteria, two are reportedly becoming increasingly resistant to medication: 86% of Shigella sonnei samples and 94% of Shigella flexneri samples showed antibiotic resistance.
What are the main differences between the two strains?
Shigella sonnei: The most common type in high-income countries, including the UK. It is becoming increasingly resistant to antibiotics, but less so than the second species.
Shigella flexneri: Historically more common in low- and middle-income countries, but also seen in sexual transmission networks in the UK. It is currently showing higher levels of antibiotic resistance.
What to do if you are diagnosed with Shigella?
People diagnosed with Shigella should rest, stay hydrated, avoid sex for seven days after their last symptom, and avoid pools, hot tubs, sharing towels, or preparing food for others while recovering.
Sexually active men should test regularly for STIs. Free STI testing is available through sexual health clinics, university medical centres and postal self-sampling kits.
For more information, please visit the UK Government website for further advice. You can find STI testing and treatment options via the NHS.