Dysentery cases rise in Portland metro area, health department reports
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Dysentery is on the rise in the Portland metro area, according to recent data released by the Multnomah County Health Department.
Also known as shigellosis, dysentery is a highly contagious bacterial disease that can cause fever, cramps, vomiting, diarrhea and fever.
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Data on dysentery cases collected by the county from 2017-2024 shows a marked increase in the number of cases between 2023 and 2024. Further, January 2025 showed 40 cases reported.
According to the county, 91% of the cases in that 7-year timeframe were caused by person-to-person spread. Of the most recent cluster of cases, the county said 56% of the cases were among people experiencing homelessness and 55% of the cases reported methamphetamine or opiate usage.
As shigella is caused by poor sanitation, health experts say the best way to avoid it is to wash your hands.
KOIN 6 News has reached out to the Multnomah County Health Department for further comment.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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