Flint Facing outbreak of Gastrointestinal illnesses

Genesee County is facing an unusually high number of cases of gastrointestinal illnesses.

Health Department officials say Genesee County reported 84 cases through the end of September, compared to 47 reported in Saginaw County. More than half of Genesee County's reported cases of Shigellosis are in Flint. Published reports indicate that state health officials have been in touch with the Genesee County Health Department about the outbreak.

Shigella is the bacteria responsible for causing Shigellosis. The symptoms include diarrhea, fever, vomiting, and stomach cramps. Officials recommend diligent hand washing in order to void spreading or contracting the bacteria.