By NewsDesk  @bactiman63 

San Diego County reports four new shigella cases associated with an ongoing outbreak, bringing the total to 35 confirmed and three probable cases among people experiencing homelessness.

Image/CDC

The 38 cases in this outbreak represent 11% of the 333 total cases reported to date in San Diego County.

The cases are all among individuals experiencing homelessness, with the majority at multiple locations in central San Diego. No source of the outbreak has currently been identified.

Shigella is a contagious infection typically spread by contaminated surfaces, food or water, or person to person. Those at increased risk include young children (especially those in daycare), people who are experiencing homelessness, travelers to locations with poor sanitation and men who have sex with men.

Typical symptoms of shigellosis include diarrhea (sometimes bloody), fever and stomach cramps. While most people will recover fully without antibiotic treatment, some individuals with poor immune systems can develop life-threatening disease and may need further treatment.  People with symptoms that resemble shigella should contact their medical care provider.