Cholera, an acute illness characterized by diarrhea, is caused by an infection in the intestines. This eMedTV resource provides an overview of the causes, transmission, and prevention of this illness, and also links to other resources on this topic.
As this eMedTV segment explains, the cause of cholera is drinking water or eating food that is contaminated with Vibrio cholerae bacteria. This article talks about the two types of this bacteria: Serogroup O1 and Serogroup non-O1.
Vibrio cholerae is the bacterium that causes cholera. As this eMedTV article explains, the bacterium is usually transmitted by eating or drinking contaminated food or water. The prevalence of cholera worldwide is also discussed.
How is cholera spread? As this eMedTV page explains, cholera transmission occurs through food or water that is contaminated with Vibrio cholerae bacteria. This page also explains how cholera is unlikely to be spread through person-to-person contact.
Possible symptoms of cholera include watery diarrhea, vomiting, and muscle cramps. This eMedTV segment describes the signs and symptoms of this illness, as well as symptoms that can occur as a result of fluid loss, such as severe dehydration.
As this eMedTV article explains, diagnosing cholera involves taking the patient's medical history, performing a physical exam, and taking a stool sample. This Web page takes a closer look at how the condition is diagnosed.
The main cholera treatments are antibiotics and oral or intravenous fluid replacement. As this part of the eMedTV archives explains, the mortality rate is reduced to less than one percent when timely and adequate treatment is given.
With early and adequate treatment, a cure for cholera is possible in greater than 99 percent of cases. This eMedTV page explains that the cure for cholera typically includes antibiotics and oral or intravenous fluid replacement.
Prevention of cholera involves avoiding contaminated food and water. This part of the eMedTV library gives specific instructions on how to reduce your risk of cholera, especially if you are in a location where cholera is common.
As this eMedTV article explains, there is no vaccine for cholera available in the United States, but there are two vaccines that are used in other countries. This page explains why the vaccine is generally not recommended for travelers.
Poverty, poor sanitation, and large populations can lead to an epidemic of cholera. This eMedTV page discusses where epidemics are taking place, why they are difficult to overcome, and what needs to be improved before they can be stopped.
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