Shigella Alert - Adelaide, Australia

The South Australia Health Department is investigating an unusual number of cases of Shigella illness in the northeastern suburbs of Adelaide and in some rural areas. This highly infectious bacterium can cause dysentery, fever, nausea, vomiting, cramps and fever. It is spread most often through contaminated food or water.

The source of the outbreak is unknown at this time, but the best means of containing the spread of the disease is through careful attention to personal hygiene.

People who are suffering symptoms of Shigella illness should consult their doctors for diagnosis and treatment. Victims of the illness should also avoid contact with susceptible individuals and should postpone visits to nursing homes, daycare centers or schools.