Improved Detection of Shigella Species in Diarrheic Children in Ghana Using Invasion Plasmid Antigen H-based Polymerase Chain Reaction Technique

Shigella species play an important role in the morbidity and mortality of children 30% of shigellosis indicates a substantial contribution of Shigella to diarrheal burden in children <5 years in Ghana. The most appropriate diagnosis of shigellosis should be PCR which is capable of detecting small amounts of nucleic acid. Furthermore, molecular screening for the detection of Shigella must be carried out in conjunction with the traditional culture method since isolation alone, may underestimate the prevalence of Shigella. Continuous surveillance will be useful in making evidence-based decisions on the introduction of vaccines against Shigella and ETEC in Ghana.