Cholera – One Of The Biggest Killers In Today’s World

By Author: studymate
Total Articles: 10
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Sometimes known as Asiatic cholera or Epidemic Cholera, Cholera is a commonly found problems in humans and tends to affect the digestion system. The disease is typically an infectious gastroenteritis caused by the bacterium Vibrio Cholerae. According to healthcare experts, the primary reason behind the onset of this disease is consuming contaminated food or water. The major reservoir for cholera was long assumed to be humans themselves, but considerable evidence proves that aquatic environment can serve as reservoirs of the bacteria.

According to several studies, it has been found that it is one of the fast spreading fatal illnesses so far and a healthy person can show symptoms of cholera within an hour of consumption. And if medical attention not given, a person can die in less than three hours. In a typical situation, the disease moves from the first liquid stool to shock in 4 to 12 hours, with death following in 18 hours to several days unless oral rehydration is given.

As far as the common symptoms of cholera are considered, diarrhea is the most ...
... obvious symptom. It can be accompanied with rapid dehydration, rapid pulse, dry skin, tiredness, abdominal and leg cramps, nausea and vomiting. It is highly recommended to provide oral rehydration as soon as possible to replete the dose of essential nutrients and fluids. This can be taken through mouth or intravenous injections if required.

Fortunately, there are large numbers of medicines available that are found to be really effective in treating the symptoms. Tetracycline is the most commonly used anti-biotic for treatment, although others have been used when the cholera bacterium proves resistant, sometimes multi-drug treatment.

Besides medicines, there are many other things that can be done to restrict the spread of bacterium. For example, the bedding and clothing of patients must be sanitized and care givers must thoroughly wash their hands before and after any kind of physical contact.

Generally, it is found that the people living near sewage treatment plants are highly prone to cholera. Both local and global authorities take several initiatives to spread awareness about cholera among communities to prevent its spread and onset. Scientists have discovered that certain blood types, particularly type O are more susceptible to cholera. Type A and B are found to be more resistant to the disease.

Overall, it can be said that cleanliness is the key to stay safe from cholera. Make sure you always wash your hands after doing anything that could be a possible cause of bacterial infection.