Shigella Outbreak In Santa Cruz County Affecting Unhoused People

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, CA — A shigellosis outbreak is affecting people — mainly those experiencing homelessness — in Santa Cruz County, according to authorities.

The County of Santa Cruz Health Services Agency reported late last week at least 27 cases — 16 lab-confirmed and 11 under investigation — since late January. Most of those who’ve fallen ill are unhoused but “a small handful” are not, Deputy Health Officer Dave Ghilarducci told KSBW.

Shigellosis is an infection caused by Shigella bacteria that can easily spread, according to the agency. The most common symptoms include diarrhea, stomach pain and cramps, and fever. Symptoms usually start a day or two after infection and last about a week, although a person can shed the bacteria for four weeks after feeling better.

“At this time the risk to the broader community is low, but people can protect themselves from Shigella by washing their hands with soap and water carefully and frequently, especially after using the bathroom, after changing diapers, and before preparing and consuming foods or beverages,” Health Officer Dr. Lisa Hernandez said in a prepared statement.

The county has been working with the City of Santa Cruz, the sheriff’s office, the Homeless Persons Health Project, medical providers, hospitals and homeless service providers to ensure hygienic precautions, identify cases, and connect ill people with treatment. Prevention measures include increasing washing stations and awareness among unhoused people, according to KSBW.

Most people will recover from shigellosis without antibiotic treatment, though those with poor immune systems can develop life-threatening illness, according to the agency. People with symptoms that resemble shigellosis should contact a primary care physician.