Stomach Bug Strikes Louisiana , Here’s Why You’re Sick

What's making Louisiana residents so sick to their stomachs that they can't attend work or school? No, it's not the putrid officiating of the NFL against the Saints this time, it's something with even less intelligence. It's a nasty strain of bacteria. And those who have contracted it say it is a miserable experience to go through.

At the outset, let's be clear about one thing, the information in this article is not meant to be a diagnosis of any symptoms you might be experiencing. If you're not well, please go see a qualified medical professional. Dr. Google did not go to medical school and relying on the Internet for advice on your own or your family's health is not something we encourage or recommend.

But we do want to make you aware of what appears to be an "enhanced" version of the stomach bug that we've probably all experienced at least one time or another. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is reporting increased incidents of a bacterial infection known as shigella.

The symptoms of shigella are described as severe diarrhea, fever, and stomach pain. There might also be some nausea and vomiting associated with those who have "picked up the bug". And, unfortunately, the "bug" is pretty easy to pick up. Doctors with the CDC say shigella is highly transmissible among humans. To make matters worse it only takes a small amount of the bacteria to make you feel sick.

And if you really want something to worry about, doctors with the CDC say the current strain of shigella that is sweeping the country appears to be more resistant to medicines than other forms of the disease.

One of the greatest concerns among those who contract shigella is dehydration. That's why despite the discomfort it might bring, it's very important that those who are suffering from diarrhea and vomiting continue to drink plenty of fluids. Healthcare professionals also suggest anti-diarrheal medicines too. And if your doctor prescribes them, a round of antibiotics can also help shorten the misery of shigella sufferers.

In most cases the person suffering will start to feel much better in a week or ten days but seeing a medical professional and getting medical attention could shorten the length of the illness and certainly lessen the effects of the symptoms.

The best way to prevent shigella? Wash your hands. And just like with the flu, if you're not feeling well, stay at home and away from large groups of people. As we mentioned shigella is passed from one person to the next quite easily. Doctors also tell us to tell you that the disease is most prevalent in youngsters ages five and under but anyone can get it. The disease can be especially troubling for the elderly and those with compromised immune systems.