Globally, the outbreak of cholera is nothing new. Reports
of cholera outbreaks emerge in war-ravaged areas, famine, etc.
Populated areas with poor sewage systems are also prone
to cholera outbreaks. There have been reports of cholera outbreaks in many
parts of India. The disease often comes back and creates havoc among the
general population. Children suffer the most, with many succumbing to cholera.
Causes
Cholera is a serious bacterial illness caused by the
bacterium known as Vibrio cholerae. This dangerous pathogen can lead to severe
dehydration and, if left untreated, can result in significant health
complications or even death.. The diarrhoeal infection can infect anyone. The
disease spreads through tainted food and water. It infects both adults and
children. The outcome of the disease gets prominent within the first 12 hours
or in five days.
The bacteria colonise the small intestine and produce
toxins. The toxins lead to electrolyte loss, which results in severe diarrhoea.
Symptoms
An infected person can experience vomiting with severe
diarrhea. Dehydration sets in case of severity. People suffering from cholera
also experience drastic weight loss. Leg and stomach cramps set in. Even an
asymptomatic person can spread cholera.
Prevention
Cholera is a water-borne disease. Access to clean
drinking water helps to prevent the spread of cholera. Following hand and
toilet hygiene will also help. Consuming contaminated food can be an open
invitation to cholera. Even the ice used in roadside stalls to prepare coloured
drinks can have bacteria, which, once consumed, can lead to the disease.
Washing fruits and vegetables before cooking is a must.
Avoid eating and drinking from open kitchens to prevent the spread.
Medication
Oral rehydration therapy is the best mode of treatment
for cholera patients. It is one of the most effective forms of treatment to
cure patients suffering from cholera. Rice-based solutions are also
recommended. In terms of the severity of cholera infection, doctors recommend
the intravenous rehydration technique.
Doctors prescribe antibiotics to relieve fever and
cholera. Vibrio cholerae bacteria can be best detected by stool examination.
Mild symptoms are easy to treat, and a child or person can recover quickly.
Predictable and preventable
Cholera is both predictable and preventable. Awareness
and medication on a timely basis will keep the disease at bay.
Major cities across tropical countries need proper
drainage systems. Open defecation, contaminated water, and food add to the
woes. Overcrowded places are susceptible to the disease. Cholera spreads fast
in areas where people stay in unhygienic conditions.
Vaccines can play a crucial role in tackling cholera
outbreaks. The vaccine can be a game changer in protecting children and adults
from cholera. Currently, vaccines are in the manufacturing phase.
Maintaining proper hygiene at home will help to prevent bacterial diseases like cholera. A lackadaisical attitude towards basic hygiene leads to diseases like cholera to spread. This mindset needs to change.
