Syracuse (WSYR-TV) – The Onondaga County Health Department issued a warning on Friday that it has confirmed 15 cases of the disease known as shigellosis and is aware of 10 more likely cases.
Onondaga County Health Commissioner Dr. Cynthia Morrow said that they anticipate encountering more cases of the disease, which is associated with consuming water or products contaminated with fecal matter.
Symptoms can include fever, painful diarrhea, and stomach cramps. The symptoms can last between five and seven days after a one to three-day incubation period.
The county has not determined the source, but they are investigating clusters of cases. Anyone with symptoms consistent with the disease should contact their health care provider.
The county health department offered the following tips for avoiding shigellosis:
- Carefully wash all fruits and vegetables. Cook foods to the appropriate temperatures. Minimize cross-contamination of foods by washing cutting boards/knives and other shared surfaces.
- Do not prepare food for others while ill with diarrhea
- Wash hand with soap carefully and frequently especially after using the bathroom, after changing diapers, and before preparing foods or beverages.
- Supervise hand washing of toddlers and small children after they use the toilet
- Dispose of soiled diapers properly
- Disinfect diaper-changing areas after using them
- Keep children with diarrhea out of child care settings
