Portland, Oregon is facing a surge in cases of Shigella, a highly contagious bacteria, being spread among the homeless population in and around downtown. In 2023, at least 218 cases of shigellosis were reported in the Portland metro area, with 45 cases in December alone, many of which occurred in Old Town. Public health officials are concerned that this surge could lead to a public health emergency.
The bacteria is usually spread through fecal matter and can result in symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, fever, and vomiting. Multnomah County Deputy Health Officer Dr. Teresa Everson has noted that cases are particularly prevalent among the homeless population, who may struggle to access bathrooms, handwashing sinks, and soap due to their lack of housing. Additionally, the lack of hygienic practices and limited access to restrooms among the homeless community have contributed to the spread of Shigella.
As cases continue to rise, the county is taking steps to mitigate the spread, offering infected homeless individuals free motel rooms to isolate in. However, there is a growing fear in the community that the cases may spread beyond the homeless population.
This outbreak in Portland is not an isolated incident, as Seattle and King County experienced a similar surge in cases affecting the homeless population in 2021. The surge in cases has brought attention to the challenges faced by homeless communities in accessing proper sanitation and healthcare.
Efforts to address the crisis include implementing a new strategy to target homelessness, with a focus on enforcing restrictions on camping in public areas. However, legal challenges and activist opposition have hindered the enforcement of these policies, further exacerbating the issue.
In conclusion, the surge in Shigella cases among the homeless population in Portland and other cities indicates the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to address the challenges faced by homeless individuals in accessing proper sanitation, healthcare, and housing. The situation highlights the intersection of public health, homelessness, and social policy, calling for collaborative efforts to prevent the spread of infectious diseases in vulnerable communities.