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
- News in Brief
- What Is Cholera?
- 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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