Health officials in Oregon are currently grappling with a significant increase in cases of dysentery, also known as shigellosis, which is known for causing severe diarrhea. Since January, there have been 40 confirmed cases of this highly contagious disease in the Portland area, as reported by local news outlets including the Oregonian and KOIN. The Multnomah County Health Department has not yet responded to requests for further details.
This current outbreak marks more than a twofold increase in dysentery cases compared to the same period last year. Data from Multnomah County indicates a troubling trend: in 2022, there were only 43 cases, which rose to 96 in 2023, and then spiked to 158 cases reported in 2024. These statistics underscore the escalating nature of this public health concern in Oregon.
Dysentery is often associated with historical events, particularly the challenges faced by 19th-century pioneers on the Oregon Trail. This connection has been popularized by the classic “Oregon Trail” video game, where players could succumb to various illnesses, including dysentery. Despite its historical roots, dysentery remains a significant health issue worldwide, with an estimated 1.7 billion cases reported annually, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
The symptoms of this bacterial infection can be severe and include bloody diarrhea, fever, painful stomach cramps, nausea, and vomiting. If left untreated, dysentery can lead to fatal outcomes, particularly for vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and those suffering from dehydration or malnutrition.
While dysentery can also be caused by parasitic infection, the current cases in Oregon are primarily bacterial. This form typically spreads through food or water that has been contaminated with fecal matter from an infected individual, as noted by the Cleveland Clinic. Such contamination can occur when food is prepared by someone who does not adhere to proper hygiene practices, such as washing hands adequately. Additionally, the disease can spread through drinking contaminated water, swimming, or even sexual contact.
Health officials in the Portland area have linked the rise in dysentery cases to factors such as increased homelessness and substance abuse, particularly involving methamphetamine and opioids. In a statement to KOIN, the Multnomah County Health Department highlighted the connection: “Lacking housing creates a context that can increase the risk of multiple kinds of infectious disease. When you don’t have housing, it is harder to prevent infectious disease and harder to access care to treat disease compared to if you are housed.”
The rise in dysentery cases in Oregon is a stark reminder of the public health challenges posed by infectious diseases. As health officials continue to address this outbreak, it underscores the importance of proper sanitation, hygiene, and access to healthcare in preventing the spread of such diseases.
