You may be hearing the word shigella for the first time recently due to a current shigella outbreak in Spokane. It is a cause of concern for the community, however, we can all take simple steps to prevent its transmission. The first step is understanding what shigella is and how it spreads.

Shigella is a type of bacteria. Most people infected with shigella have the following symptoms:

• Diarrhea (can be bloody and last for multiple days)
• Fever
• Stomach pain

Symptoms begin 1-4 days after exposure, and usually last about seven days. Infection can cause serious complications for people easily impacted by diarrhea and dehydration. If someone is experiencing the symptoms above, they should seek medical evaluation.

Shigella spread easily and it only takes a small number of bacteria to make someone ill. Someone with an infection can spread it for several weeks after symptoms end. The main source of the bacteria is from feces (poop). If somebody gets bacteria on their hands when using the toilet, changing a diaper, or from another form of exposure, it can then spread to hands and other surfaces. If it gets into somebody else’s mouth, they can become infected. Exposure to feces during sexual contact can also cause transmission.

As of December 19, there have been 87 confirmed cases in Spokane County. The annual number of cases has ranged between three and 23 cases for the last five years. Most of the cases reported this year have been among those experiencing homelessness, however, it can easily spread throughout any part of the community.

The Spokane Regional Health District (SRHD) has been monitoring the situation closely. Healthcare providers have been urged to report cases promptly, and SRHD has implemented measures to support affected organizations:

• Guidance and training for homeless shelters, service providers, and meal sites on improving handwashing and sanitization
• Regular updates and alerts to healthcare partners and emergency responders
• Distribution of additional supplies (hand sanitizer, body wipes, and personal undergarments) to homeless shelters
• Education for food establishments and the Food Coalition on safe food handling and hygiene

Reduce your chances of getting a shigella infection by:

• Washing your hands before preparing food or eating
• Washing your hands after going to the bathroom, changing a diaper, or cleaning up the bathroom
• Washing your hands before and after sexual activity
• Sanitizing high-touch areas and areas that may have exposure to feces.

A shigella infection outbreak is a significant public health concern, however, by staying informed and practicing good hygiene, we can break the chain of transmission and lessen the risk throughout the community.

For more information, visit the CDC’s shigella page.