A potentially life-threatening diarrhoea-causing infection that can be transmitted through sexual contact is on the rise in the United Kingdom, prompting health experts to raise awareness about its symptoms and prevention.
What Is the Infection and How Is It Spread?
The illness, caused by the parasite Entamoeba histolytica, is primarily spread through oral-anal sexual contact and can lead to amoebic dysentery. According to medical professionals, the parasite is highly contagious and can survive outside the body for extended periods, making hygiene a critical factor in transmission.
Symptoms include severe diarrhoea, stomach cramps, fever, nausea and bloody stools, although some infected individuals may not experience any symptoms. This asymptomatic carriage can unknowingly spread the infection to others, complicating control efforts.
Why Is It a Cause for Concern?
Medical experts warn that if left untreated, the parasite can spread beyond the intestines to organs such as the liver, lungs and brain, potentially leading to serious complications and, in rare cases, death. Liver abscesses are a known complication, which can be fatal if not treated promptly.
The recent rise in infections has been linked to sexual transmission, particularly among men who have sex with men. Health professionals advise anyone who develops persistent diarrhoea or related symptoms after sexual contact to seek prompt medical attention. Early diagnosis is key, as the infection can be mistaken for other gastrointestinal illnesses.
Treatment and Prevention Advice
Doctors say the infection can be effectively treated with antiparasitic medication when diagnosed early. They also recommend practising good hygiene, using barrier protection during sexual activity, and avoiding sexual contact while experiencing symptoms to help reduce the risk of transmission.
Public health officials are urging increased awareness and testing, especially among high-risk groups. The UK Health Security Agency has noted a steady increase in cases over recent years, highlighting the need for targeted prevention campaigns.
What the Public Should Know
Anyone with symptoms such as prolonged diarrhoea, abdominal pain, or bloody stools should consult a healthcare provider. Testing involves stool samples or blood tests, and treatment is typically straightforward with appropriate antibiotics or antiparasitics.
Health experts stress that the infection is preventable through safe sexual practices and good hygiene. They also advise against sharing towels or bedding with an infected person to avoid transmission through faecal-oral routes.
