11.aug.06
WOWT (NE)
Health officials say more than 30 probable cases of shigella have occurred in Lancaster County in the past two weeks. Fourteen cases have been confirmed.
Shigella is a parasitic infection that can cause severe diarrhea — a danger for younger and older patients because of possible dehydration.
Tim Timmons of the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department says the cases have been reported in children and adults, but three day-care providers have been especially affected.
He says that to avoid the infection, people should wash their hands thoroughly after using the toilet, changing diapers and before eating.
The infections are usually spread in fecal material.