Outbreak

control begun



STAFF REPORT

ALAMOSA — Recently, there have been several culture confirmed cases of shigellosis among children in Alamosa County according to Alamosa County Nursing Service Director Julie Geiser.

Shigellosis is an intestinal disease caused by Shigella bacteria that are transferred from person to person or in food. It occurs when infected persons do not wash hands thoroughly after using the bathroom. Symptoms include diarrhea (sometimes bloody or with mucus), fever, cramps, nausea and sometimes vomiting. Symptoms usually last 2 to 10 days.

Geiser said that Alamosa County Public Health has been working closely with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment to address this outbreak. Outbreak control has focused on child care centers and preschools. “All childcare and preschool staff have been very cooperative in the attempt to control the spread of this bacteria,” she said.

While it is an inconvenience for working parents, sometimes it is necessary to keep children at home until a negative culture has been obtained, or the child has been treated, Geiser advised. Public Health is giving each affected center direction for handling the situation.

Children ages five and under who have diarrhea must stay out of daycare or preschool and need to be seen by their medical providers. Hand washing is important after toileting and before meals. Ill persons should not prepare food.

The presence of Shigellosis usually does not originate from a water source.

Questions may be directed to Alamosa County Public Health at 589-6639.