Cholera is a bacterial disease that affects the intestinal tract. It is caused by a germ called Vibno cholera. Although only a few cases are recognized in the United States each year, epidemic levels of cholera have recently been reported in parts of Central and South America.
While cholera is a rare disease, those who may be at risk include people traveling to foreign countries where outbreaks are occurring and people who consume raw or undercooked seafood from warm coastal waters subject to sewage contamination. In both instances, the risk is quite small.
The cholera germ is passed in the stools. It is spread by eating or drinking food or water contaminated by the fecal waste of an infected person. This occurs more often in underdeveloped countries lacking adequate water supplies and proper sewage disposal.
People exposed to cholera may experience mild to severe diarrhea, vomiting and dehydration. Fever is usually absent.
The symptoms may appear from six hours to five days after exposure.
Because of the rapid dehydration that may result from severe diarrhea, replacement of fluids by mouth or by the intravenous route is critical. Antibiotics, such as tetracycline, are also used to shorten the duration of diarrhea and shedding of the germs in the feces.
A vaccine is available and is sometimes recommended for travelers to certain foreign countries where cholera is occurring. However, the vaccine offers only partial protection (50%) for a short duration (two to six months). Some physicians feel that foreign travelers almost never contract cholera and that use of the current vaccine cannot be justified.
The single most important preventive measure is to avoid consuming foods or water in foreign countries where cholera occurs unless they are known to be safe or have been properly treated. Source: NY State Department of Health
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