NSW Health is investigating an increase in cases of Shigella, an infection that causes diarrhoea, sometimes with mucus and even blood, as well as fever, nausea and feeling generally unwell. There have been 12 confirmed cases since mid-September, principally amongst men who have sex with men (MSM) living in inner Sydney.
It coincides with recent Shigella cases amongst MSM in Victoria.
While the disease is generally short-lived, it can be worse in anyone with a poor immune system.
Director of NSW Health Communicable Diseases Branch Dr Mitchell Smith said "anyone who has severe diarrhoea should see their GP, so they can be assessed".
Their doctor may order a faecal test and prescribe medication.
The exact mode of spread has not yet been indentified in this outbreak; however the illness is very easily spread, with only a small dose of germs needed to cause disease. Infection is usually caused by close contact with someone else with Shigella or consuming food or drink contaminated with the bacteria.
Prevention is by maintaining good general hygiene including thorough hand washing especially after sex, after going to the toilet, and before eating. People with diarrhoea should avoid having sex or preparing food for others.
NSW Health is continuing to investigate cases, and is working closely with ACON and local GPs to alert communities & manage the situation.