- News: A recent cholera outbreak in Jamnagar (20 confirmed cases) was linked to contaminated drinking water caused by leaky underground pipelines.
- Understanding Cholera
- Cause: An acute diarrheal disease caused by the bacteria Vibrio cholerae.
- Transmission:Consumption of food or water contaminated with the feces of infected persons.
- Spreads fastest in areas with poor sanitation, unsafe water and warm tropical climates.
- Core Symptoms: Begin within hours to 5 days.
- watery diarrhea and vomiting.
- Rapid Dehydration: Can be fatal within hours if untreated.
- Treatment and Prevention
- Rehydration Therapy: Life-saving use of Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) or IV fluids.
- Medicinal Support: Antibiotics (to reduce severity) and Zinc supplementation (critical for children).
- Oral Cholera Vaccines (OCVs): Dukoral, Shanchol, Euvichol-Plus
- Challenges and Way Forward (WASH Framework): Cholera is considered a governance issue rather than just a medical one. Its persistence indicates failures in urban water management.
| Challenge | Way Forward |
| Contaminated Water | Immediate repair of pipelines and regular water testing. |
| Poor Sanitation | Achieving universal sanitation coverage. |
| Rapid Spread | Strengthening early surveillance and isolation protocols. |
| Recurring Outbreaks | Long-term investment in WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene). |
