Kerala's Health Minister K Muraleedharan announced intensified surveillance and preventive measures following the death of a four-year-old girl, Nila, from Shigella infection in Kozhikode. This marks the state's first reported fatality from the disease. Three children were hospitalized with Shigella, with two recovering. The infection, which primarily affects the intestines, spreads through contaminated food and water. Last week, 123 cases were reported in Alappuzha and Pathanamthitta districts. Amid reports of gastrointestinal illness among 164 students in Wayanad, preliminary investigations indicated no link to Shigella. The Health Department has mandated the Food Safety Department to enhance inspections of eateries and ensure safe drinking water. The minister warned against unhygienic practices, including the reuse of ice for food and drinking purposes, and stated that strict actions would be taken against non-compliant establishments. Muraleedharan also addressed misconceptions regarding health sector privatization and assured that government hospitals would be maintained to compete with private facilities.