Potential Shigella Exposure at Urbane Café

Contact: Michelle Corson, Public Relations Officer, 661-868-0288

October 16, 2018

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Bakersfield, CA - A person diagnosed with Shigellosis was working at Urbane Café, located at 2658 Mt. Vernon Avenue, Bakersfield, CA, from October 2 through October 15, 2018.
Shigellosis is a contagious diarrheal illness caused by a bacteria called Shigella. People who are infected with Shigella may develop diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps starting a day or two after exposure to the bacteria. Shigellosis usually resolves in 5 to 7 days and may require medical treatment. Some people who are infected may have no symptoms at all, but children, elderly, pregnant women, or people who have weakened immune systems can develop a more serious illness.

Shigella is often transmitted in food handled by an infected person. The risk of spread of Shigellosis can be reduced by frequent and careful handwashing with soap.

Anyone who has eaten food from Urbane Café between October 2 and October 15, 2018 may have been exposed to Shigella and should watch for symptoms until October 18, 2018. If you are concerned about your risk of exposure or experience symptoms, contact your healthcare provider.

For more information call our office at (661) 321-3000 or visit the Centers for Disease Control Website at https://www.cdc.gov/shigella/general-information.html.

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