Shigella Outbreak in Onondaga County, New York

Shigellosis is associated with consuming water or food products contaminated with fecal matter from human origin.
The Commissioner of Health for Onondaga County in New York state, announced on June 22, 2012 that there are 15 lab confirmed and 10 probable cases of shigellosis in that county. More cases are expected as the investigation continues.
 Shigellosis is an infectious disease called by a group of bacteria called Shigella is associated with consuming water or food products contaminated with fecal matter. The incubation period is 1 – 3 days. Many people who are infected with Shigella develop fever, painful bloody or mucous diarrhea, and stomach cramps. Shigellosis usually resolves in 5 – 7 days. The disease is often worse in some patients, especially children, in whom medical treatment is required and sometimes can develop neurological complications.
To avoid spreading Shigella bacteria, follow these tips:

·         Wash all fruits and vegetables

·         Cook food to the appropriate final internal temperature and check with a thermometer

·         Minimize cross-contamination of foods

·         Don’t prepare foods for others while ill, especially when you have diarrhea

·         Wash hands well with soap after using the bathroom, changing diapers, and before preparing foods and beverages

·         Supervise hand washing of small children after they use the bathroom

·         Dispose of soiled diapers properly

·         Disinfect diaper-changing areas after using them

·         Keep children with diarrhea out of child care settings

·         Avoid swallowing water from ponds, lakes, or untreated pools

 People can be carriers of the Shigella bacteria with no symptoms. Those with mild infections usually recover with no treatment, but some patients need medical care or hospitalization. A severe infection may be associated with seizures in patients under the age of two. About 2% of individuals infected with Shigella flexneri develop post-infectious arthritis which can lead to chronic arthritis or other severe sequels.
Source: http://foodpoisoningbulletin.com/2012/shigella-outbreak-in-onondaga-county-new-york/