Two cases of Shigella infection have been confirmed within the Wadakkanchery municipal limits, prompting the health department to step up monitoring and preventive measures.The infection was detected in two children aged four and seven from the Mangalam South Canal area. Health officials said there is no immediate cause for alarm and that the situation is being closely monitored. The children, who are undergoing treatment at the Thrissur Medical College Hospital, are reported to be recovering.According to officials, the children had recently returned to Mangalam on June 8 after staying in Tamil Nadu with their mother, a native of Madurai. As a result, the exact source of the infection remains unclear. However, it has been found that the family had been using unboiled water.Following the detection of the cases, water samples from nearby sources have been collected and sent for testing. The results are expected within four days.Preventive activities have been intensified under the joint leadership of the municipality and the health department. Awareness campaigns and coordination efforts are being carried out in neighbouring areas.Health officials have urged the public to remain cautious and seek medical attention if symptoms appear. The main symptoms of Shigella infection include severe abdominal pain, high fever ranging from 103 to 105 degrees, vomiting, and diarrhoea that may contain blood. Published - June 13, 2026 08:38 pm IST