Clinical Issues

Cholera is a bacterial disease caused by the bacteria known as Vibrio Cholerae. It is caused in the small intestine generally due to the intake of contaminated water. Cholera is associated with diarrhoea and vomiting of clear fluid. Diarrhoea can be severe and can lead to death if not treated in time. It can easily spread to people in nearby surroundings if the water used by others is contaminated by the stool of the patient.

Vibrio Cholerae bacteria thrives in dirty water, moist earth, salty water and in the stools of infected people. The symptoms generally arise after 12 hours to within a week of exposure. The stools are often called “rice-water” stools due to the white appearance.

Symptoms of Cholera

Do’s

• Drink boiled or chlorinated water to kill any existing bacteria in the water.
• Also assure that the water used for brushing the teeth, washing and preparing food is clean.
• Keep utensils clean
• Wash hands properly with soap and water
• Keep the surroundings clean and germ free

Don’ts

• Do not defecate in any water bodies.
• Do not eat salad to avoid intake of any traces of cholera infected water.
• Do not delay the treatment. Go to a doctor, get the tests and medications started as soon as possible.
• Do not consume seafood in cholera prone areas. Try to avoid seafood in general.