The number of individuals sickened in a Shigella outbreak in Upstate New York has risen from 45 – at last report – to 69, while the source of the bacteria remains unclear. The outbreak is affecting residents of Onondaga County, located in the central northern New York. The county’s health department announced the increase in cases Friday. Health officials there are still not sure what is causing the outbreak. Shigella infection, or shigellosis is characterized by fever, stomach cramps and diarrhea that can be painful and contain blood or mucous. Symptoms usually appear 1 to 3 days after exposure and resolve in about a week. If you think you may have contracted shigellosis, contact your healthcare provider. For more information on this outbreak, see Food Safety News’ previous reports: Officials Tracking Shigella Outbreak in Upstate New York Upstate New York Shigella Outbreak Expands to 45