Cholera is an infectious disease that can result in rapid dehydration. If left untreated, it can even cause death. Commonly occurring in areas with poor sanitation, it usually spreads through contaminated water and food. Unfortunately, this disease continues to affect millions of people all over the globe, especially in developing nations. Understanding the cholera meaning, its causes, symptoms, and prevention methods can help with disease control and public awareness. Read on to learn more.
Cholera is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, which is a microbe commonly found in contaminated water and food, especially in areas with poor or nonexistent sanitation. It was first identified in the 1800s in the United States. Since then, it has plagued humanity, leading to widespread illness and death. It starts with rapid dehydration and severe diarrhoea. If proper medical care is not provided, the cholera disease can quickly turn into a life-threatening condition.
Vibrio cholerae is the bacterium responsible for cholera. It is a gram-negative, comma-shaped organism that thrives in polluted sewage as well as coastal saltwater environments. They cling to marine creatures like crabs and shellfish, making their way to humans.
Once you have consumed the contaminated water or seafood, this bacterium will settle in your small intestine. Then, its powerful exotoxin will disrupt your natural water balance. The fluids and electrolytes from your body will be rapidly expelled, making you feel severely dehydrated.
Cholera is caused when you come in contact with a contaminated substance. Here is how that might happen:
Early detection plays a crucial role in the treatment of cholera, which is why you need to learn these cholera symptoms and look out for them:
These symptoms show that your body is responding to an electrolyte imbalance and acute dehydration. If you don’t seek medical help immediately, your condition can rapidly deteriorate.
The cornerstone of cholera treatment is rapid and effective rehydration therapy. Cholera causes the body to lose fluids and electrolytes at a dangerous rate through persistent diarrhea and vomiting. If not replenished, this loss can lead to severe dehydration, kidney failure, shock, or even death.
For mild to moderate cases, Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) is usually sufficient. ORS is a scientifically balanced mixture of glucose, sodium, potassium, and chloride, designed to quickly replace the fluids lost during diarrheal episodes. It is inexpensive, easily available, and can even be prepared at home with clean water, salt, and sugar.
However, in severe cases, where dehydration is critical and ORS is no longer effective or feasible, patients are given intravenous (IV) fluids. This method ensures that the body quickly regains balance and prevents organ damage. A standard adult may require up to 6 litres of IV fluid within the first few hours of treatment, depending on the severity of fluid loss.
While antibiotics are not always necessary for treating cholera disease, they are often prescribed in moderate to severe infections. The primary goal of antibiotic therapy is to:
Common antibiotics used include:
It is important to note that antibiotics should only be used under medical supervision, as overuse or incorrect dosage can contribute to antimicrobial resistance.
In children, especially those under five, zinc supplementation has proven to be effective in reducing the severity and duration of diarrhoea. Zinc helps in maintaining the integrity of intestinal walls, boosts immunity, and promotes quicker recovery. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends 10–20 mg of zinc per day for 10–14 days following cholera or any acute diarrheal illness.
During the recovery phase, it is essential to restore nutritional balance. Patients, particularly children, may lose their appetite or be hesitant to eat, but continued feeding helps the body regain strength and replenish lost nutrients. Easily digestible, high-energy foods like rice porridge, bananas, boiled potatoes, and yoghurt can be introduced gradually.
Avoiding processed foods, caffeinated beverages, and dairy (especially in the early recovery phase) is also recommended, as they may irritate the stomach or cause further dehydration.
While receiving treatment, maintaining strict hygiene and sanitation practices is essential to prevent the spread of the disease to caregivers and other patients. This includes:
Hospitals and treatment centres usually have cholera-specific isolation protocols in place to minimise cross-infection risks.
Preventing cholera is often more effective than treating it. Good hygiene, clean water, and safe food practices are critical. Here are some practical steps to avoid infection:
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