Cholera (patient information)

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What is Cholera?

Cholera is an acute, diarrheal illness caused by infection of the intestine with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. The infection is often mild or without symptoms, but sometimes it can be severe. Approximately one in 20 infected persons has severe disease characterized by profuse watery diarrhea, vomiting, and leg cramps. In these persons, rapid loss of body fluids leads to dehydration and shock. Without treatment, death can occur within hours.

What are the symptoms of Cholera?

The following is a list of symptoms commonly associated with people who have developed cholera:

• Abdominal cramps
• Dry mucus membranes or mouth
• Dry skin
• Excessive thirst
• Glassy or sunken eyes
• Lack of tears
• Lethargy
• Low urine output
• Nausea
• Rapid dehydration
• Rapid pulse
• Sunken "soft spots" (fontanelles) in infants
• Unusual tiredness
• Vomiting
• Watery diarrhea that starts suddenly and has a "fishy" odor

What are the causes of Cholera?

Cholera is caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. The bacteria releases a toxin that causes increased release of water in the intestines, which produces severe diarrhea.

Cholera occurs in places with poor sanitation, crowding, war, and famine. Common locations for cholera include:

• Africa
• Asia
• India
• Mexico
• South and Central America

People get the infection by eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

A type of vibrio bacteria also has been associated with shellfish, especially raw oysters.

Risk factors include:

• Exposure to contaminated or untreated drinking water
• Living in or traveling to areas where there is cholera

Where to find medical care for Cholera

Directions to Hospitals Treating Cholera