Michigan Food Safety Management Practice Test

What is a primary symptom of Shigella infection?

1. Abdominal pain

2. Double vision

3. Paralysis

4. Vomiting

The correct answer is: Abdominal pain

A primary symptom of Shigella infection is abdominal pain, which is a common manifestation of the disease. Shigella, a type of bacteria that causes gastroenteritis, typically leads to inflammation of the intestinal lining. This inflammation can cause discomfort and pain in the abdominal area, often accompanied by other symptoms such as diarrhea – which may be bloody – fever, and sometimes nausea. The presence of abdominal pain is particularly notable as it reflects the irritation and issues within the gastrointestinal tract caused by the infection. In contrast, the other symptoms listed are not typically associated with Shigella. Double vision relates to neurological conditions rather than gastrointestinal infections. Paralysis indicates significant neurological impairment and is not a symptom of Shigella. While vomiting can occur with Shigella infections, it is not typically considered a primary symptom compared to abdominal pain, which serves as a more consistent indicator of the infection.