There is a concerning Health issue in Santa Cruz County as a Shigella outbreak continues to spread. Initially confined to the homeless community, the outbreak has now expanded to include 27 possible cases, up from just four last week. Health officials are worried that the outbreak could potentially become more widespread, posing a threat to the general population.
Dave Ghilarducci, deputy health officer for Santa Cruz County, expressed concern over the situation, stating, “We’re concerned there may be many more cases that we don’t know about… it may break out of the current population, which is largely our homeless population, and spread to the broader community.”
The county health department has taken action by activating its operations center and collaborating with various stakeholders, including the city, law enforcement, hospitals, and homeless service providers, to devise strategies and interventions to combat the outbreak. Precautionary measures such as installing additional washing stations and raising awareness among the homeless population have been implemented.
As the outbreak escalates and another storm approaches, there is a possibility of opening emergency shelters, which could heighten the risk of spreading the bacteria further. Service providers working with the homeless are increasing sanitization efforts and enforcing safety measures to prevent the spread of Shigella.
While the outbreak is currently being treated as a health alert, should it continue to spread, broader health advisories may be issued. Symptoms of Shigella include diarrhea, fever, and cramps, ranging from mild to severe and lasting up to a week. Health officials emphasize that regular and thorough handwashing is the best defense against the bacteria.
As Santa Cruz County grapples with this growing health crisis, the community is urged to remain vigilant and adhere to preventive measures to contain the outbreak and protect public health. Stay informed and prioritize personal hygiene to safeguard against the spread of Shigella.
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