Shigellosis Ten Times More Prevalent than Last Year
State health officials are reportedly seeing nearly ten times the number of shigellosis cases this year compared to the same time last year, according to the Indiana State Department of Health. Shigellosis is a contagious illness that causes symptoms similar to the flu, with fever, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal cramping.
Shigellosis is transmitted between people through the fecal-oral route. It can be spread especially easy among children due to the lack of proper hand washing and the habit of young children to put things in their mouths. People can also become infected by eating food prepared by an infected person, or handling/cleaning up feces.
Symptoms usually begin 24-72 hours after being exposed to the illness and usually last about four to seven days without treatment. Severe infections may require antibiotics. Health officials recommend being tested for shigellosis if you develop vomiting or diarrhea, particularly if it is bloody. Hydration is also very important.
Some people with shigellosis may not show severe symptoms, but can still spread the infection to those around them. Hand washing is the best defense against the spread of shigellosis.