A Shigella outbreak has been declared in Amador County, California according to news reports. That county is located in the eastern part of Northern California and includes the cities of Jackson, Pine Grove, and Ione.
Shigellosis is caused by the Shigella bacteria. Symptoms of this infection include fever, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea that may be bloody. Some people can develop toxemia as a complication of this infection. Symptoms usually begin one to four days after exposure to the contagious bacteria. Dehydration is a serious complication of this infection. Some people may be carriers of the bacteria and not develop any symptoms at all. If you have been experiencing these symptoms, see your doctor. You may be part of this Shigella outbreak.
Shigella bacteria are excreted in the feces of an infected person. The bacteria is passed through food and drink and from person-to-person. A person with this infection is contagious up to four months. The most common way to contract this infection is by eating food prepared by an infected person.
Public health officials say that one establishment has been associated with illness reports, but that facility has not been named. County health officials are investigating this outbreak and have enforced food safety practices at the establishment.
Most people do recover from Shigella infections on their own without any medical intervention. But some groups, especially young children, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems, may develop serious complications.
To stop the spread of this pathogen, people should stay home from work or school when they are ill, especially with a diarrheal illness. Anyone who has diarrhea should not prepare food or drink for others. And everyone should make sure they wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the bathroom and taking care of someone who is sick.
