Local News in Brief : Sharp Rise in Cases of Shigella Reported
- Share via
Los Angeles County health officials Monday announced a sharp increase in the number of reported cases of shigella, a bacteria-induced disease that most commonly strikes infants, causing diarrhea, fever, nausea and cramping.
As of Nov. 19, there were 2,335 cases reported this year in the county, contrasted with 1,298 in the same period of 1987, the Department of Health Services said. Because children ages 1 to 14--especially toddlers--are most likely to become sick from the bacteria, the department has notified physicians and day care center directors of the increase in cases.
The spread of the infection can easily be prevented by thorough hand-washing, especially after using the bathroom, health officials said. In addition, parents can help prevent the disease from spreading by always washing their hands after diapering, assisting a child in the bathroom and preparing to feed the infant.
Sign up for Essential California
The most important California stories and recommendations in your inbox every morning.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
