Investigation underway in Texas for Shigella outbreak; restaurant yet to be identified



Investigation underway in Texas for Shigella outbreak; restaurant yet to be identified
Investigation underway in Texas for Shigella outbreak; restaurant yet to be identified



Investigation underway in Texas for Shigella outbreak; restaurant yet to be identified



Investigation Underway in Texas for Shigella Outbreak; Restaurant Yet to be Identified

Houston, Texas – The Harris County Public Health has announced an investigation into a recent outbreak of shigellosis, also known as shigella, a highly infectious bacterial disease that can cause severe diarrhea and stomach cramps. Since the outbreak was first reported, the department has identified more than 40 cases of shigella infection, with the majority of the cases located in Houston and Harris County.

What is causing the outbreak?

The outbreak’s exact cause is yet to be determined, but preliminary investigations suggest that contaminated food or water could be the cause of the outbreak. Besides, shigella is highly contagious and can quickly spread through person-to-person contact, especially in communities such as nursing homes, daycare centers, and schools. Therefore, if you have symptoms of shigellosis, stay home, and seek medical attention.

Which restaurant is responsible for the outbreak?

While the investigation is still ongoing, the department has not yet identified any specific restaurant or grocery store linked to the recent outbreak. They are urging anyone who has eaten at a restaurant in the area recently and developed symptoms of shigella to contact them.

To help contain the spread of the disease, the department is advising everyone to follow all public health guidelines, including proper hand hygiene and food handling practices. Shigella is easily preventable, and individuals can protect themselves and others by washing their hands, cooking food thoroughly, and not preparing or consuming food while sick.

What is shigella, and what are its symptoms?

Shigella is a bacterial disease that causes inflammation of the intestines, leading to stomach cramps, diarrhea, and fever. The immense loss of body fluids due to diarrhea can result in dehydration, making shigellosis particularly dangerous for young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. The good news is that most people recover from shigellosis without complications, with symptoms lasting up to seven days.

Steps to take to avoid shigella

– Always wash your hands thoroughly after using the bathroom, changing diapers, and before preparing or consuming food.
– Cook food thoroughly, especially meat and poultry products.
– Avoid handling or consuming food if you have symptoms of shigellosis.

Summary

Harris County Public Health is investigating a recent outbreak of shigella in the Houston and Harris County area, which has affected over 40 people. The department has not identified any particular restaurant or grocery store linked to the outbreak and is urging anyone who has symptoms of shigella to seek medical attention immediately. If you have eaten at a restaurant recently and developed symptoms, contact Harris County Public Health. To prevent shigella, maintain proper hand hygiene, cook food thoroughly, and avoid handling food while sick. #ShigellaOutbreak #HoustonHealthDepartment #HealthyLiving #PublicHealth #Hygiene #Texas #HEALTH

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