Cholera

From WikiMD's Wellnesspedia

Cholera is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It is characterized by severe diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration. The disease is primarily spread through contaminated water and food.

Etiology[edit | edit source]

The causative agent of cholera, Vibrio cholerae, is a Gram-negative, comma-shaped bacterium. The bacterium produces a toxin, known as cholera toxin, which is responsible for the severe diarrhea associated with the disease.

Transmission[edit | edit source]

Cholera is primarily transmitted through the fecal-oral route. This can occur when an individual consumes water or food contaminated with the feces of an infected person. In many cases, the contamination is due to poor sanitation and hygiene practices.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The primary symptoms of cholera are severe diarrhea and vomiting. This can lead to extreme dehydration and, if not treated promptly, can be fatal. Other symptoms may include rapid heart rate, loss of skin elasticity, low blood pressure, and muscle cramps.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

The mainstay of treatment for cholera is rehydration therapy. This involves the administration of oral rehydration salts to replace lost fluids and electrolytes. In severe cases, intravenous fluids may be required. Antibiotics may also be used to shorten the duration of the illness and reduce the severity of symptoms.

Prevention[edit | edit source]

Prevention of cholera primarily involves improving sanitation and hygiene practices. This includes ensuring access to safe drinking water and proper disposal of human waste. Vaccination against cholera is also available and can provide protection for up to two years.

Epidemiology[edit | edit source]

Cholera is endemic in many parts of the world, particularly in regions with poor sanitation and limited access to clean water. Major outbreaks have occurred in Africa, Asia, and the Americas. Template:Infectious disease-stub

Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.


Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD