Since September 1, 71 kids have been infected with Shigella bacteria in Lubbock area schools and daycares. Shigella outbreaks are rare, but the highly contagious bacteria can infect many people in a short amount of time. Kids showing symptoms of Shigella poisoning should not go to school or daycare.
Shigella is a family of bacteria that causes illness in humans. They cause an illness called Shigellosis, which is very contagious. Symptoms of Shigellosis can appear within a few days of infection, and will present with symptoms including diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and fever. If you or a loved one begins to show the symptoms of Shigellosis, contact a medical professional.
Shigella is usually spread through contact. This makes outbreaks at daycares and schools especially serious, as children often do not have the best personal hygiene. If your child is showing symptoms of Shigella poisoning, do not send them to school or daycare.
