Bharat Biotech recently launched Hillchol (BBV131), a novel single-strain oral cholera vaccine (OCV).
- The vaccine works by stimulating the intestinal immune response, which limits the colonization of the gut by cholera causing bacteria if someone is exposed to it.
About Cholera:
- Cholera is an acute diarrheal illness caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae.
- It is characterized by severe watery diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration and, if untreated, death.
Causes:
- Cholera is primarily spread through contaminated water or food.
- The Vibrio cholerae bacterium thrives in environments with inadequate sanitation and can rapidly proliferate in untreated water sources.
- Common sources include untreated drinking water, raw or undercooked seafood, fruits and vegetables irrigated with contaminated water, and food and drinks sold by street vendors.
Symptoms:
- Watery Diarrhea: Sudden onset of painless, profuse watery diarrhea, often referred to as “rice-water stools” due to its appearance.
- Vomiting: Frequent vomiting that can lead to further fluid loss.
- Dehydration: Symptoms of dehydration include intense thirst, dry mouth, decreased urine output, and sunken eyes.
- Electrolyte Imbalance: Severe electrolyte imbalances can cause muscle cramps, weakness, and shock.
- Rapid Heart Rate: As dehydration progresses, the heart rate may increase significantly.
- Low Blood Pressure: Hypotension due to loss of fluids and electrolytes.
Treatment:
- Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) is a solution of clean water, salt, and sugar to replace lost fluids and electrolytes.
- In severe cases, Intravenous Fluids (IV) fluids are necessary to rapidly restore hydration.
- Antibiotics like Doxycycline, Azithromycin, especially in areas with antibiotic-resistant strains.
- Zinc Supplements particularly beneficial for children, zinc can reduce the duration and severity of diarrhea.
Prevention:
- Preventing cholera involves ensuring access to clean water and proper sanitation.
- This includes treating and chlorinating drinking water, practicing good hand hygiene, properly cooking food, and avoiding raw or undercooked seafood.
- Vaccination is also available and recommended in areas with high risk of outbreaks.
Ref: Source
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Frequently Asked Question:
What is cholera?
Cholera is an acute diarrheal disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It leads to severe watery diarrhea and dehydration, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
How is cholera transmitted?
Cholera is primarily transmitted through the consumption of contaminated water or food. The bacterium Vibrio cholerae can contaminate drinking water, food, or surfaces if proper sanitation and hygiene are not maintained.
How is cholera diagnosed?
Cholera is diagnosed through stool samples, which are tested in a laboratory to detect the presence of Vibrio cholerae bacteria.