04/01/2024
20 Facts You Should Know About Cholera:
Cholera is an acute diarrhoeal illness caused by infection with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It's a potentially fatal disease that can spread rapidly in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene. Zambia, unfortunately, is currently facing a cholera outbreak, making it crucial for everyone to be aware of this disease.
Here are 20 essential facts about cholera, particularly relevant to the Zambian context:
✅️Transmission:
1. Contaminated water: The primary mode of cholera transmission is through contaminated water and food. Open defecation near water sources and inadequate water treatment contribute to this risk.
2. Poor sanitation: Lack of proper sewage disposal and handwashing facilities increase the risk of faecal matter contaminating water and the environment.
3. Food sources: Raw or undercooked food, can harbour the cholera bacterium.
✅️✅️Symptoms:
4. Sudden onset: Cholera symptoms typically appear abruptly, within 2-5 days of infection.
5. Watery diarrhea: The most common symptom is profuse watery diarrhea, often described as "rice-water stool" due to its appearance.
6. Vomiting: Frequent vomiting is another common symptom, leading to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.
7. Muscle cramps: Severe muscle cramps, particularly in the legs and abdomen, can be agonizing.
✅️✅️Severity and Complications:
8. Dehydration: Dehydration is the most significant risk of cholera, especially in young children and the elderly.
9. Kidney failure: Severe dehydration can lead to kidney failure if not treated promptly.
10. Death: Without proper medical care, cholera can be fatal in up to 30% of cases.
✅️✅️Prevention:
11. Safe water: Access to clean and safe drinking water is crucial for preventing cholera outbreaks. Boiling or using Chlorinated water are essential measures.
12. Sanitation: Improved sanitation infrastructure and practices, like handwashing with soap and proper latrine use, are vital for breaking the transmission cycle.
13. Vaccination: While not currently available in Zambia , an oral cholera vaccine can offer short-term protection against the disease.
✅️✅️Response and Treatment:
14. Oral rehydration salts (ORS): ORS solution, readily available at health centers and pharmacies, helps replenish fluids and electrolytes lost due to diarrhea and vomiting.
15. Antibiotics: In severe cases, antibiotics are used to shorten the duration of illness and reduce the risk of complications.
16. Early medical attention: Seeking medical care immediately upon experiencing cholera symptoms is crucial for prompt diagnosis and effective treatment.
✅️✅️Specific to Zambia:
17. The continued cholera outbreaks, highlights the need for sustained investment in water, sanitation, and hygiene infrastructure.
18. Vulnerable populations: Children under five and adults over 50 are more susceptible to severe cholera complications.
19. Community engagement: Raising awareness about cholera prevention measures and encouraging community participation in outbreak response efforts is essential.
20. Collaborative efforts: Effective cholera control requires collaboration between government agencies, healthcare providers, NGOs, and communities.
Remember, everyone has a responsibility to practice good hygiene, ensure access to safe water and sanitation, and seek medical attention promptly if experiencing cholera symptoms. Together, we can combat cholera and build healthier communities in Zambia.
Your Caring Pharmacist
