How cholera remains a global concern—what you need to know
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Cholera—it’s not something most of us think about.
But should we?
This highly infectious disease is making headlines again, and experts warn that new outbreaks could pose a greater risk than many realize. Could it be closer to home than we think?
For many, cholera seems like an issue confined to history books. However, this waterborne disease remains a serious global health concern.
Cholera spreads most rapidly in areas where clean water and sanitation are scarce. According to Dr. Louise Ivers, director of the Harvard Global Health Institute, outbreaks typically occur “in regions of the world with poor infrastructure, conflict, or displaced people who do not have access to the preventive measures that are needed, such as safe drinking water and latrines.”
According to the World Health Organization, cholera infects between one and four million people annually, resulting in 21,000 to 143,000 deaths each year.
Cholera is caused by the Vibrio cholerae bacterium, which spreads through contaminated water and food. Once ingested, the bacteria produce a toxin that leads to severe diarrhea, dehydration, and, in extreme cases, death.
Dr. Jason Nagata, a pediatrician at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, warns that a person can go from feeling fine to critical condition within hours.
The signs of cholera infection can appear suddenly and worsen rapidly. Common symptoms include:
Timely treatment can reduce cholera fatality rates significantly. Source: Medical CentricMedical Centric / YouTube.
Despite its severity, cholera is both preventable and treatable. Taking simple precautions can significantly reduce your risk. Here’s what you can do to protect yourself and your family:
While the risk in the US is low, outbreaks in other parts of the world can have wider consequences.
Many at-risk populations lack access to clean water and medical care, making outbreaks harder to control. International efforts focus on improving sanitation and emergency response to limit the spread of the disease.
What are your best tips for food and water safety?
Share your thoughts in the comments below—let’s help raise awareness about global health challenges!
Read more: New study reveals surprising truth about tap versus bottled water
But should we?
This highly infectious disease is making headlines again, and experts warn that new outbreaks could pose a greater risk than many realize. Could it be closer to home than we think?
For many, cholera seems like an issue confined to history books. However, this waterborne disease remains a serious global health concern.
Cholera spreads most rapidly in areas where clean water and sanitation are scarce. According to Dr. Louise Ivers, director of the Harvard Global Health Institute, outbreaks typically occur “in regions of the world with poor infrastructure, conflict, or displaced people who do not have access to the preventive measures that are needed, such as safe drinking water and latrines.”
According to the World Health Organization, cholera infects between one and four million people annually, resulting in 21,000 to 143,000 deaths each year.
Cholera is caused by the Vibrio cholerae bacterium, which spreads through contaminated water and food. Once ingested, the bacteria produce a toxin that leads to severe diarrhea, dehydration, and, in extreme cases, death.
Dr. Jason Nagata, a pediatrician at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, warns that a person can go from feeling fine to critical condition within hours.
The signs of cholera infection can appear suddenly and worsen rapidly. Common symptoms include:
- Profuse watery diarrhea that leads to extreme fluid loss
- Severe dehydration and intense thirst due to rapid fluid depletion
- Muscle cramps and fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness and dangerously low blood pressure
Timely treatment can reduce cholera fatality rates significantly. Source: Medical CentricMedical Centric / YouTube.
Despite its severity, cholera is both preventable and treatable. Taking simple precautions can significantly reduce your risk. Here’s what you can do to protect yourself and your family:
- Drink only safe water – Use bottled, boiled, or treated water for drinking and cooking.
- Practice good hygiene – Wash hands regularly with soap and clean water.
- Be cautious with food – Avoid raw or undercooked seafood and street food in high-risk areas.
- Get vaccinated – The Vaxchora vaccine provides protection for travelers visiting cholera-endemic regions.
- Seek immediate treatment – Rehydration therapy is key to survival.
While the risk in the US is low, outbreaks in other parts of the world can have wider consequences.
Many at-risk populations lack access to clean water and medical care, making outbreaks harder to control. International efforts focus on improving sanitation and emergency response to limit the spread of the disease.
Share your thoughts in the comments below—let’s help raise awareness about global health challenges!
Read more: New study reveals surprising truth about tap versus bottled water
