Cholera
By: Jordan King
Overview
- It affects the transportation of water in the small intestine
- It affects the body by causing you to have severe hydration and diarrhea
History of Cholera and Types of Cholera
- Researchers have estimated that every year there are 1.4 to 4.3 million cases and 142,000 deaths due to Cholera
- The first case of Cholera was in 1991 in South America, starting in Peru
- There are two types of Cholera: Classic Cholera and Cholera sicca
- Cholera sicca is where the fluid is retained in the digestive system
- Cholera does not affect a certain age or ethnic group, it affects anyone that comes in contact with contaminated water
Causes
- Cholera is an acute diarrhoeal disease that can kill within hours if not treated
- It is caused by drinking or eating contaminated with the bacteria Vibrio cholerae
- It is mostly caused by traveling international, human feces, poor hygiene and contaminated water
Signs and Symptons
- 80% of the people who contract Cholera have no symptoms
- Among the 20% that do show symptoms, 80% of them only have mild to moderate symptoms while the other 20% have diarrhea and severe hydration
Diagnosis and Treatment
- The test that are run for this disease include testing stool for bacteria that includes Cholera
- Treatment includes antibiotics including Doxycycline and azithromycin
Prevention
- Prevention of Cholera includes staying clean and keeping good hygiene. Also not drinking contaminated water or food