Outbreak of highly contagious bug devastates homeless encampments as it spreads to third state READ MORE: Highly-contagious infection spread by feces breaks out in Portland By Maiya Focht For Dailymail.Com Published: 17:51 EDT, 21 June 2024 | Updated: 17:54 EDT, 21 June 2024 e-mail View comments People living in encampments in San Jose, California are the latest group affected by a highly contagious bug called shigella. The bacteria, which is transmitted when someone comes in contact with fecal matter through sex, diapers, food or water, causes bloody diarrhea, vomiting, fever and stomach pain that can last for weeks.
Santa Clara County health officials have confirmed three cases and said another 19 were suspected during a two week period beginning June 3, including two people who have been hospitalized. 'We're really pursuing this situation aggressively because of the number of cases as well as the setting and making sure that this doesn't spread further' Monika Roy, Assistant Health Officer at Santa Clara County Health department, told ABC 7 . Shigella is transmitted when someone comes in contact with fecal matter through sex, diapers, food or water The breakouts are centered around encampments in Columbus and Roosevelt parks.
Officials said the risk of the bacteria spreading from these areas to other people is low. That's because shigella outbreaks usually only occur in areas with little access to sinks, toilets and other hygiene stations. If you're regularly washing your .