Cholera
What is cholera?
Cholera is a bacterial disease that affects the intestinal tract. It
is caused by a germ called Vibno cholera. Although only a few cases are
recognized in the United States each year, epidemic levels of cholera
have recently been reported in parts of Central and South America.
Who gets cholera?
While cholera is a rare disease, those who may be at risk include people
traveling to foreign countries where outbreaks are occurring and people
who consume raw or undercooked seafood from warm coastal waters subject
to sewage contamination. In both instances, the risk is quite small.
How is the germ spread?
The cholera germ is passed in the stools. It is spread by eating or
drinking food or water contaminated by the fecal waste of an infected
person. This occurs more often in underdeveloped countries lacking adequate
water supplies and proper sewage disposal.
What are the symptoms of cholera?
People exposed to cholera may experience mild to severe diarrhea, vomiting
and dehydration. Fever is usually absent.
How soon do symptoms appear?
The symptoms may appear from six hours to five days after exposure.
What is the treatment for cholera?
Because of the rapid dehydration that may result from severe diarrhea,
replacement of fluids by mouth or by the intravenous route is critical.
Antibiotics, such as tetracycline, are also used to shorten the duration
of diarrhea and shedding of the germs in the feces.
Is there a vaccine for cholera?
A vaccine is available and is sometimes recommended for travelers to
certain foreign countries where cholera is occurring. However, the vaccine
offers only partial protection (50%) for a short duration (two to six
months). Some physicians feel that foreign travelers almost never contract
cholera and that use of the current vaccine cannot be justified.
How can cholera be prevented?
The single most important preventive measure is to avoid consuming foods
or water in foreign countries where cholera occurs unless they are known
to be safe or have been properly treated. Source: NY State Department
of Health
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