Cholera

In News

• Recently, several countries across the world have reported a surge in cholera cases this year raising concerns about a global resurgence of the disease. 
  • These include Kenya, Malawi, Haiti and the Philippines.

Cholera

• About:
  • Cholera is a bacterial disease usually spread through contaminated water. It causes severe diarrhea and dehydration.
• Symptoms:
  • Severe watery diarrhea accompanied by vomiting which can quickly lead to dehydration.
• Spread:
  • The risk of a cholera epidemic is highest when poverty, war or natural disasters force people to live in crowded conditions without adequate sanitation.
• Prevalence:
  • Modern sewage and water treatment have virtually eliminated cholera in industrialized countries. But cholera still exists in Africa, Southeast Asia and Haiti.
• Prevention and control:
  • A multifaceted approach is key to control cholera, and to reduce deaths. A combination of surveillance, water, sanitation and hygiene, social mobilization, treatment, and oral cholera vaccines are used.

Source: DTE