Cholera Cases in India

Source: Financial Express
GS II: Issues relating to the development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources

Overview

1. News in Brief
2. What Is Cholera?
3. Conclusion

Why in the News?

With the onset of monsoon, cases of cholera have been detected in two states of India.

News in Brief

Cholera Cases in India

• In Gujarat, some areas of Rajkot were declared as cholera-affected after two cases were detected.
• In Kerala, an outbreak of cholera has been reported at a private care home.

What Is Cholera?

• Cholera is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae.
• It primarily spreads through contaminated water and food.
• Although rare in areas with proper sanitation, it remains a significant health concern in regions lacking safe drinking water and adequate hygiene.

Symptoms

• Asymptomatic Carriers
  • Most people exposed to the cholera bacterium don’t develop symptoms but can still shed the bacteria in their stool for up to 14 days.
  • Asymptomatic carriers unknowingly contribute to the spread of cholera.
• Mild to Severe Diarrhea
  • Cholera-related diarrhea strikes suddenly and can lead to rapid fluid loss (up to a liter per hour).
  • The diarrhea appears pale and milky, resembling water used to rinse rice.
• Nausea and Vomiting
  • Vomiting occurs, especially in the early stages of cholera.
  • Dehydration exacerbates these symptoms.
• Dehydration
  • Dehydration sets in within hours of symptom onset.
  • Signs include irritability, fatigue, sunken eyes, dry mouth, extreme thirst, and shrivelled skin.
  • Severe dehydration (10% or more body weight loss) can be life-threatening.

Treatment

• Rehydration Solution:
  • Immediate treatment involves rehydration.
  • A simple, inexpensive oral rehydration solution prevents severe dehydration and saves lives.

Prevention

• Clean Water and Sanitation:
  • Access to safe drinking water and proper sanitation is crucial.
  • Modern sewage and water treatment have significantly reduced cholera cases in industrialized countries.
• Hygiene Practices:
  • Handwashing and food safety are essential.
  • Avoid consuming contaminated water or raw shellfish.

Conclusion

• Cholera remains a global health challenge, especially in impoverished regions.
• Awareness, hygiene, and timely treatment are our best defenses against this bacterial menace.

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