Four cases of shigellosis have been confirmed among students at the Echo School since October 15, according to Dr. Paul Cieslak, communicable diseases program manager at the Oregon Health Division. There are additional, unconfirmed, reports of illness among students and staff at the school, and other specimens are pending. None of the ill persons have been hospitalized, although at least one child was treated for dehydration.
Shigellosis is a bacterial infection.
Symptoms include moderate to severe diarrhea, fever, vomiting, and abdominal cramps. Some persons may develop bloody diarrhea. Appropriate medical treatment can sometimes shorten the duration and severity of the infection. Symptoms may persist for three to five days or more if left untreated. Even after symptoms go away, some infected persons will continue to shed Shigella in their stool for several weeks or even months.