Broward Health Dept. warns of Shigellosis

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (WSVN) -- The Broward County Health Department has issued a health advisory warning of an increase in cases of Shigellosis.

Cases of those contracting the Shigella bacteria has more than doubled since last year, officials said. The Health Department has documented 81 cases so far this year, whereas 2009 saw 43 cases.

Officials from the Health Department have decided to issue a health advisory warning of Shigellosis, ahead of the new school year. They want to make sure cases subside before children return to class.

John Livengood, the director of the Broward County Health Department explained, "It's a bacteria that can really replicate very quickly. It excretes some toxins and can cause watery diarrhea."

Officials said, though anyone can catch the bacteria, most cases appear in children ages of 1 to 9 years old. Toxins from that bacteria attack the lining of the large intestine. Symptoms may last anywhere from 12 hours to 72 hours and frequently include fever, stomach cramps, ulcers and bloody stools.

Officials emphasized the most important step to prevent the spread of the bacteria is by washing hands thoroughly. Bobby Carter said he always washes his hands. "My mom tells me to wash my hands every time that I go to the bathroom," he said.

Tiffani Matthis said, as a parent, she does what she can to keep germs at bay. "I have hand sanitizer in my bag, as a matter of fact," she said. "I tell them it keeps the germs down."

Besides hand washing, health officials offered the following tips to prevent infection:

-Dispose of soiled diapers properly.
-Disinfect diaper changing areas after using them.
-Keep children with diarrhea out of child care.
-Supervise hand washing of toddlers and small children after they use the toilet.
-Do not prepare food for others while ill with diarrhea
-Avoid swallowing water from ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

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