Dysentery cases are on the rise in the Portland area, with health experts attributing the surge to homelessness. The link between poverty and poor sanitation has made people experiencing homelessness more susceptible to contracting dysentery.
The risk of infection is heightened due to inadequate access to basic facilities like portable bathrooms and handwashing stations. During the COVID-19 pandemic, similar measures were implemented in public areas, reducing the spread of disease. However, ongoing challenges remain in providing adequate sanitation solutions for vulnerable populations.
As cases continue to rise, concerns about preventing the spread of dysentery among homeless individuals grow. Experts highlight the need for improved access to hygiene facilities and sanitation services to mitigate this risk.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2025/03/04/dysentery-outbreak-portland-oregon