Cholera

Cholera is an infectious disease that affects the intestinal tract. It is rare today in industrialized countries. However, it has caused severe epidemics in the past, and continues to be a major public health problem throughout the world.

Causes

Cholera is caused by the bacterium Vibrio Cholera. This bacterium secretes a toxin that causes rapid loss of fluids from the small intestines. It is spread through food or water contaminated by fecal waste. Cholera is not spread directly from one person to another. Today, Cholera is mostly found in underdeveloped countries that lack adequate sewage disposal.

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chances of getting a disease or condition.
  • Eating contaminated food or fluids
  • Eating raw or undercooked shellfish
  • Living or traveling in areas where cholera is present

Symptoms

Symptoms of cholera come on fairly quickly and can be severe. They include:
  • Sudden onset of painless, watery diarrhea without blood or pus
  • Vomiting
  • Dehydration
  • Fatigue
  • Leg cramps
The severity of symptoms ranges from mild, short-lived diarrhea to shock and death due to extreme fluid loss. Most symptoms occur 1-3 days after exposure.

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. It is important to tell your doctor about any recent travel to areas where Cholera is common. If Cholera is suspected, stool and blood samples will be tested.

Treatment

Fluid Replacement The first priority in treating cholera is to replace fluids and electrolytes lost through diarrhea. In severe cases, uncorrected dehydration can be fatal. Hydration solutions can be given orally or through an IV.

AntibioticsAntibiotic medications help shorten the course of the disease. They may also be given to the people you live with, to prevent them from becoming ill.

Prevention

Careful Eating Habits

You can prevent cholera by avoiding contaminated food and fluids in areas where cholera occurs. Currently, these areas include parts of these countries and continents:
  • Asia
  • Africa
  • India
  • South America
  • Central America
When traveling in these areas, you are advised to:
  • Eat well-cooked foods that are served hot
  • Avoid all raw or undercooked shellfish
  • Avoid salads
  • Avoid raw vegetables that you have not peeled yourself
Vaccine A short-term cholera vaccine has been developed. However, the form available in the United States is not consistently effective and should not be relied upon for protection.