Health Department: 62 cases of Shigellosis already this year, compared with 11 all of last year

MILWAUKEE – The City of Milwaukee Health Department has received a number of confirmed reports of Shigellosis in both adults and children over the past several months. More than 62 cases have been reported already in 2014 compared to 11 cases in all of 2013. Many of the confirmed reports have been in city day care and school or group settings.

Shigellosis is caused by a bacteria and results in stomach cramping, diarrhea, fever, nausea, or vomiting.

It is primarily spread person-to-person, but can also be spread through contaminated water, food, or on surfaces such as diaper changing tables.

Some individuals infected with Shigella bacteria may not show symptoms but can still pass the illness to others.

High-risk settings include child care facilities, schools and other group settings in which toddlers are not fully toilet-trained.

Most symptoms of Shigellosis resolve within a week. However, severe and persistent cases can be treated with antibiotics.

Persons with symptoms, especially in high-risk transmission occupations such as food handling or health care, should stay at home until fully recovered.

Health officials remind the public that there are ways to prevent Shigella infection, including:

Further information is available on the MHD website at www.milwaukee.gov/health.