In an October 19, 2015 announcement, the Santa Clara Public Health Department reported that they are investigated an outbreak of Shigella associated with the Mariscos San Juan restaurant in downtown San Jose. At least 80 people are sick. The outbreak has cause many to be hospitalized and 12 were admitted to intensive care. The restaurant was closed by health officials on October 18, 2015. It is still closed and health officials have not announced when it will reopen. Most cases reported eating at the restaurant on either October 16th or October 17th.
Shigella refers to a family of bacteria that causes 500,000 illnesses in the United States each year. It cause an illness called Shigellosis. Symptoms of Shigellosis appear within a couple of days after infection, and include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever. Cases of Shigellosis are especially serious in those with risk factors such as having a compromised immune system, living in an area with poor sanitation, and living in a large group. If you or a loved one begins to have severe or bloody diarrhea coupled with a high fever (101° and above), contact a medical professional.
