Cholera alert- a sporadic outbreak on a rise

The outbreak of cholera in specific areas of Bangalore has sent cold shivers across the city. Cholera is one of a water  related infection and the worst nightmare to human beings. A recent report on the occasional spread of this disease has put the city on high alert. Diseases like cholera, mumps, and measles can turn into an epidemic based on certain conditions. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that annually, about 3 to 5 million people are affected worldwide by cholera and over 100,000 cases result in death.  Taking necessary precautions and timely treatment can keep this outbreak under control. Early interventions can keep the disease far a bay. Public awareness concerning the spread of disease can help in curbing cholera. Dr.Ramya V Raghavan, Consultant, Internal Medicine, Columbia Asia Hospital, Whitefield, speaks on cholera :

Q.1 What are the symptoms of cholera?

Profuse watery diarrhoea

Vomiting

Leg cramps and associated symptoms due to dehydration

Cholera can cause death due to dehydration within hours if not treated properly.

Q.2  How does cholera spread?

Cholera is a caused by a bacterium called Vibrio Cholerae present in contaminated water and food

Cholera does not spread directly from one person to another. It is only spread via faecal contamination of water sources and food.

Cholera has a short incubation period from a few hours to around 5 days.

Around 75% of people carrying the cholera infection may not show any symptoms but shed the bacterium in their faeces/stools across 7 to 14 days causing infection to other individuals.

Q.3 Please suggest simple steps to protect oneself and their family from cholera?

Drink and use safe water.

Safe water is water that is bottled with an unbroken seal or water that has been boiled or treated via chlorine or other means.

Safe water should also be stored in clean covered containers.

Wash hands often with soap and safe water.

Cook food well. Keep all food items covered.

Always wash hands after using a latrine and before preparing any food.

Do not defecate in the open or near any water body. Bury the faeces or use a latrine.

Q.4 What is the treatment for cholera?

First ensure patient is sufficiently hydrated via an Oral Rehydration Salt (ORS) solution.In severe case, intravenous fluids will be needed

Appropriate antibiotics will be prescribed by your Doctor to shorten the duration of the disease

If any person presents with any of the cholera symptoms listed above, then they must immediately go to the nearest hospital or PHC.