The City of Independence says it's also seeing an increase in reported Shigella cases.
Independence Public Information Officer Craig Brenner said 12 cases have been reported since July 1.
RELATED: Health officials urge precautions as Shigella cases on the rise in Kansas City, Missouri
Typically in Independence, less than five cases a year are reported within city limits.
What is Shigella?
Shigella is an infectious diarrheal disease caused by bacteria.
Symptoms include: abdominal pain or cramps, fever, watery diarrhea, stool with blood or mucous, vomiting, fever and the urge to go to the bathroom when your bowels are empty.
How can you prevent Shigella?
Below are tips to avoid Shigella, courtesy of the Kansas City, Mo., Health Department:
- Wash your hands frequently, thoroughly and correctly with soap and warm water and use paper towels for drying. Educate smaller children regarding proper hand washing techniques and supervise hand washing.
- Those infected should not prepare food or drinks for others until they have been shown to no longer be carrying the Shigella bacterium.
- Dispose of diapers from infected children correctly. The diapers should be put in a closed-lid garbage can and then your hands should be immediately washed carefully with soap and water, as well as the child’s after changing or disposing of the diapers. Diaper changing areas should be disinfected with household bleach, Lysol or bactericidal wipes, according to directions.
- Keep children and adults with diarrhea out of swimming pools, spas, and all shared water (including bath tubs) for two weeks following the end of diarrhea.
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