A nasty bacteria is prompting a reminder from the Winnebago County Health Department: “wash your hands!”
There have been 34 cases of shigella reported over the past month in the county, mostly among young children. Health department spokesman Todd Kisner says parents and caregivers are being asked to be extra-vigilant when it comes to getting kids and hygiene:
“When you get home, everybody wash their hands—to prevent bringing any infection, or diseases, or bacteria into the household. If everybody can get into that mindset during the time when we’re all out, you know, that would be great.”
Symptoms are diarrhea, fever, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Shigella can be treated with antibiotics, and anyone exhibiting symptoms should stay away from work, school, and daycare.
