An infectious Shigella disease is circulating in Old Town, leading individuals to seek medical attention at hospitals.
Shigella is a highly infectious contagious infection transmitted through fecal matter, presenting symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, stomach cramps, and occasionally vomiting, with a duration of three to 10 days.
Shigella
Michael Lynn Moreland Jr., who discovered he had Shigella during a detox facility stay, emphasized the severity: “I spent Christmas at Providence Hospital. This is not a game.” Moreland Jr. recounted his distress at Fora Health, unable to keep food down, necessitating hospitalization for five days, including Christmas, due to the highly contagious nature of Shigella.
County health officials are advising Old Town residents and workers to frequently wash hands, remove shoes before entering homes or tents, and exercise caution in social interactions. Moreland Jr. warned against sharing items potentially contaminated with fecal matter, such as vaporizer pens.
In Old Town, KGW observed several homeless individuals experiencing similar symptoms. Ricky, a long-term homeless individual, struggled with fever, fatigue, and vomiting. Access to clean bathrooms is challenging for those outside, and the Behavioral Health Resource Center is a vital service for hygiene needs.
The CDC reports Shigella causing around 450,000 infections annually in the U.S., with 45 cases in December across Washington, Clackamas, and Multnomah counties. Unusual among homeless populations, Shigella spreads more easily due to limited hygiene access and healthcare barriers. Testing is encouraged, and if positive, the county may offer free hotel stays for recovery.
