Otherwise known as epidemic or Asiatic cholera, cholera is an infectious gastroenteritis which is contracted by people who ingest infected water or food. In developed countries, the threat of cholera is virtually non-existent due to advanced sanitation systems, but in the developing world the disease can quickly spread as an epidemic.
Originally endemic in India, cholera spread across trade routes to North America, via Russia and Europe. The first recorded pandemic of cholera began in Bengal in 1816 and rapidly spread across India. The disease reached China and the Caspian Sea before retreating, killing thousands in its wake.
Cholera gives its victims acute liquid diarrhea, and when this feces is allowed to come into contact with the water supply, it spreads rapidly. Any food or crockery washed in the contaminated water can help to spread the disease.
How serious: cholera can quickly lead to death due to severe dehydration therefore sufferers must seek medical attention immediately. If a doctor is not at hand, rehydration salts should be administered.
How likely: travelers who take care not to drink contaminated water are highly unlikely to contract the disease.
How to get it: cholera is contracted when a person consumes contaminated water, either by drinking it or by washing food in it.
Where it is found: cholera is still found throughout the Indian subcontinent as well as in other parts of Asia and parts of Africa. It is a disease of the developing world.
Symptoms: sufferers of cholera experience acute diarrhea that can cause extreme dehydration or even death just hours after the disease has been contracted. Other symptoms include a raised pulse, abdominal and leg cramps, lethargy, nausea and vomiting. Medical attention should be sought immediately.
How to avoid it: don’t drink water from any unidentified source and when drinking river or tap water in affected areas, ensure that it is boiled or sterilized adequately. The disease can be avoided by the establishment of good sanitation practices.
How to treat it: water and electrolyte replacement is essential, and intravenous rehydration may be necessary. Antibiotics are usually given to treat the disease.
All content found on the this Website, including: text, images, audio, or other formats were created for informational purposes only. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this Website.