Cholera << KOL uhr uh >> is an infectious disorder of the intestines . It is common in southern Asia , and outbreaks also occur occasionally in other parts of the world. Cholera is caused by a comma-shaped bacterium called Vibrio cholerae. The microorganism is transmitted by water or food that has been contaminated with the feces (solid body wastes) of people who have the disease .
Cholera occurs when Vibrio cholerae enters the intestines and releases cholera toxin . The toxin causes the intestine to secrete large amounts of water and salt. Because the intestine cannot absorb the water and salt at the rate they are secreted, the patient suffers severe diarrhea . This loss of fluid causes severe dehydration and changes in the body chemistry. If untreated, the illness can lead to shock and eventually death. With proper treatment, cholera lasts only a few days.
Doctors treat cholera with special solutions that help replace the patient’s lost fluids. The solutions may be taken orally or intravenously (by injection). Intravenous treatments are more effective, but they often are not available in rural areas where the illness frequently occurs. An easily prepared household solution for treating cholera consists of 5 grams (1 teaspoon) of salt and 20 grams (4 teaspoons) of sugar per 1 liter (0.95 quart) of water. The amount of fluid given to the patient should match the amount lost in diarrhea.
Prevention of cholera requires adequate sanitation facilities. Effective vaccines against cholera are available, but they do not provide long-term immunity. They are mainly used to control cholera outbreaks and to protect people traveling in high-risk areas. People who travel in areas where cholera is widespread should not drink the local water. In addition, they should cook all foods that may have been exposed to water.
