Shigellosis Increases in Reno County

Officials of the Reno County Health Department and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment this afternoon reported 22 confirmed cases of Shigellosis have been diagnosed in a community outbreak that began earlier this month in the county. Health officials told a telephone media briefing that over 200 individuals are being investigated because they have reported diarrhea or have been interviewed about family members with the infectious illness.

Health officials report this outbreak is more difficult to stop because it's transmitted among individuals rather than from a single source. Shigella is transmitted fecally-orally, usually by direct contact with an infected person, or by consuming contaminated food or water.

"Our vaccine for this outbreak is good, thorough hand washing," said Judy Seltzer, Reno County Health Department administrator. "Hand washing is the only way to stop the spread of Shigellosis."

Most of the cases involve preschool and school-age children. One infant has been hospitalized as a result.

"We're encouraging Reno County residents who have diarrhea to consult their physician and have a stool sample tested," said Gianfranco Pezzino, MD, KDHE State Epidemiologist. "Further, persons with diarrhea should not be working in a food handling or personal care giving setting where bacteria can be spread to others."

Symptoms of Shigellosis include diarrhea, fever, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps. Severe cases may result in death. Other cases may be mild and asymptomatic. Illness is often self-limiting lasting up to seven days.

Health Officials are planning several educational efforts to increase community awareness of how people can prevent the spread of Shigellosis.