Dr. Kiyoshi Shiga (1871-1957): Outstanding Bacteriologist Who Discovered Dysentery Bacillus and Contributed Immensely to Public Health in Japan.

Abstract

Kiyoshi Shiga (1871-1957) was a renowned Japanese bacteriologist best known for discovering the dysentery bacillus. Born in Sendai during the Meiji Restoration, Shiga graduated from Tokyo Imperial University's School (later University of Tokyo) of Medicine and began microbiological research under Shibasaburo Kitasato. In 1897, during a dysentery (sekiri) epidemic, he isolated and identified the causative organism (later named Shigella dysenteriae) using Koch's postulates, laying the foundation for enteric disease research. Shiga later worked with Paul Ehrlich in Germany, pioneering chemotherapy research for trypanosomiasis. Upon returning to Japan, he continued studying infectious diseases such as tuberculosis and beriberi, significantly contributing to public health improvements. As a professor at Keio University School of Medicine, Shiga advanced medical education in Japan and abroad. In his later years, he returned to his hometown near Sendai, living in harmony with nature. His gentle demeanor and scientific achievements earned him deep respect and affection from the local community. Shiga's funeral was marked by a long line of mourners, a testament to the impact he had on those around him. His life embodied the balance between scientific inquiry and humanitarian spirit, profoundly influencing the development of bacteriology and public health globally.