Final answer:
Shigella gastroenteritis is spread through the fecal-oral route. It produces a toxin called Shiga toxin that can destroy cells in the gastrointestinal tract.
Step-by-step explanation:
Gastroenteritis caused by Shigella is spread through the fecal-oral route, usually due to poor sanitation and hygiene practices. The bacteria can be transmitted from person to person or through contaminated food and water.
Shigella produces a toxin called Shiga toxin, also known as verotoxin. This toxin can destroy cells in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever. It can also cause dysentery, which is characterized by bloody stool.