Health department confirms shigellosis outbreak in Moberly public schools

Monday, the Randolph County Health Department confirmed a Shigellosis outbreak in Moberly Public Schools during the month of September.

On Sunday, our crews received a letter warning of the outbreak that was given to parents who had children in the school district.

The letter said there were several cases of Shigellosis at South Park Elementary last month. It warns that students who contract symptoms of the disease should stay at home and contact their medical provider.

The health department says there have been 23 cases of either Shigellosis or E. Coli within the past three or four weeks. However, the reports have been on the decline within the past week or so.

According to Moberly School Superintendent Dr. Matt Miller, the school district worked closely with the Randolph County Health Department during the outbreak. He said that health department staff advised that the symptoms are very close to what kids may experience with regular ailments like the flu, so parents should stay vigilant and call their doctor if needed.

Shigellosis is an infectious disease caused by bacteria in the intestines. Symptoms can include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal pain.