The Moniteau County Health Center is investigating a Shigella outbreak in Moniteau County, according to Administrator Andrea Kincaid, RN.
"At this time the MCHC has investigated more than 70 cases among students/faculty and family members experiencing diarrhea like illness," she said. Although student illnesses were reported, the department reports did not specify which schools might have been involved. "We have been actively involved in educating school officials and families on how to minimize transmission of this bacteria," Kincaid said.
Local schools are actively disinfecting the facilities prior to the beginning of summer school and other activities as a precaution.
Laboratory testing has confirmed the presence of Shigella in several of the victims of illness and the local health center is awaiting results in several other pending cases.
Shigella, a bacterial infection of the intestines, can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting or fever. The illness may last 4-7 days, but it may take 1-7 days for symptoms to begin in an infected person. Since symptoms may be more severe in high risk groups, such as young children, elderly and those with impaired immune systems, notices have been made to day care facilities and others of special concern.
"We have been actively involved in educating school officials and families on how to minimize transmission of this bacteria," Kincaid said.
Shigella, which is similar to Salmonella, is the most contagious of the bacterial diarrheal illnesses. According to Communicable Disease Coordinator Michelle Wilfong, RN at MCHC, "Younger children are most likely to get Shigella, but people from all age groups are affected." The illness is commonly spread from young children to their family members and others in their communities because it is so contagious. A person that is infected is contagious as long as the Shigella bacteria remains in the feces and this could be for up to four weeks. Patients treated with "appropriate antibiotics" may carry Shigella in the feces for significantly less time.
Recommendations for prevention of Shigella illness:
Wash hands thoroughly after using the toilet. Educate smaller children regarding proper hand washing techniques and supervise hand washing.
Clean and sanitize any objects that come in contact with feces. This includes toilets (potty chairs), sinks, toys, and diaper changing areas with a product that kills bacteria.
Do not prepare food when sick. Those infected should not prepare food or drinks for others until diarrhea stops for at least 24 hours. Those who work in healthcare, food service, or childcare facilities should not prepare or handle food for others until their local health department has authorized them to return to work.
Keep children and adults with diarrhea out of swimming pools, spas, and all shared water (including bathtubs) for two weeks following the end of diarrhea.
Seek medical care, especially if you are in a high risk group or are in an occupation in which you could spread Shigella to others (childcare, food handling, or health care).
If you have questions about Shigella, contact the Moniteau County Health Center at 573-796-3412 or your health care provider.