Brooklyn –The Orthodox Jewish communities of Boro Park & Williamsburg are experiencing an unprecedented number of Shigellosis cases over the last two months according to the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH). In a typical year the entire city of New York, with a population of 8.4 million, experiences between 200 and 300 cases of Shigellosis. In the last two months there have been 45 reported cases in the communities of Boro Park and Williamsburg among a population of less than 200,000. According to the DOHMH the number of infections this year is 11 times larger than last year’s numbers for these communities.

Shigellosis is commonly referred to as Shigella, after the microorganism that causes it. Symptoms of the disease include severe diarrhea which may be accompanied with fever, nausea, and stomach cramps. The Shigella bacteria is present in the fecal matter of those infected and most commonly spreads among toddlers and young children who do not wash their hands thoroughly after using the restroom.

According to the DOHMH, Shigella infections can last several weeks, and infected persons usually recover without any treatment. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), however, has indicated that one type of Shigella may cause long-term joint pain and eye irritation in 2% of those who become infected. “The Health Department has told us that the easiest way to prevent Shigellosis is to carefully wash hands with warm running water and soap after using the toilet or changing diapers,” explained Councilman David G. Greenfield. “This is even more important for children who can easily transfer and receive the microscopic Shigella bacteria.

”Since Shigella was discovered a century ago by Shiga, the Japanese scientist for whom the disease is named, much has been learned about how outbreaks can be prevented, treated, and minimized.  Shigellosis rarely requires hospitalization and usually resolves itself in 5 to 7 days. The bacteria, however, can remain in a person for up to two weeks after they overcome their symptoms.  According to the CDC, households with infected infants should be careful to wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water after changing diapers.  Diapers should be disposed of in a closed-lid trash can, and diaper changing areas should be wiped with antibacterial cloths.  When possible, parents should not allow infected children to be in contact with unaffected children.

While the number of yearly Shigella cases is usually small, an outbreak in the 1980s affected over 1,300 people and lasted five months, according to the DOHMH.  Councilman Greenfield believes that such an outbreak can definitely be avoided this time around.

“Today, we have more ways than ever to get the word out about this Shigellosis outbreak,” explained Councilman Greenfield.  “It’s simple really, make sure that everyone washes their hands with soap and water after they use the bathroom and change diapers.”

Finally, to prevent the spread of Shigellosis, parents are urged to keep their children at home and out of school until they recover from the symptoms.

(YWN Desk – NYC)