Cholera is a highly infectious, acute diarrheal disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, typically found in contaminated food or water.
Cholera Symptoms
– Severe, acute watery diarrhea
– Dehydration
– Symptoms appear within 12 hours to 5 days after infection
– Most cases are mild or asymptomatic, but can lead to severe dehydration and death if left untreated
Cholera Epidemics and Outbreaks
– 1.3 to 4.0 million cases and 21,000 to 143,000 deaths annually worldwide
– Recent outbreaks reported in 44 countries, with 472,697 cases and 2,349 deaths in 2022
Vaccine for Cholera
– Three WHO pre-qualified oral cholera vaccines (OCVs): Dukoral®, Shanchol™, and Euvichol-Plus®
– Two doses required for full protection, with varying administration and booster requirements ¹
Cholera Disease Prevention and Control
– Safe water and basic sanitation
– Improved hygiene practices
– Multifaceted approach including surveillance, social mobilization, and treatment
– Oral cholera vaccines used in conjunction with water and sanitation improvements ¹
Cholera Treatment
– Oral rehydration solution (ORS) for most cases
– Intravenous fluids and antibiotics for severe cases
– Zinc adjunctive therapy for children under 5
– Rapid access to treatment essential during outbreaks
Community Engagement
– Active participation in program development and implementation
– Promotion of good hygiene practices and safe food handling
– Increased communication during outbreaks
Resources:
– World Health Organization (WHO)
– Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
