DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Infectious Disease

Cholera

HIGH SEVERITY

An acute diarrheal infection caused by Vibrio cholerae bacteria. Causes severe watery diarrhea and dehydration, can kill within hours if untreated. Spread through contaminated water. Major public health problem in areas with poor sanitation.

Global Affected

1.4M

Countries

25

Symptoms

Profuse watery diarrhea ('rice water stools')
Vomiting
Rapid dehydration
Leg cramps
Restlessness/irritability
Dry mouth/skin
Low blood pressure
Rapid heart rate
Anuria

Treatment Options

Oral rehydration solution (ORS)
IV fluids (severe)
Zinc supplementation
Antibiotics (azithromycin/doxycycline)
Nutritional support
Vaccination (outbreak control)
Hospitalization (severe)

Risk Factors

1Poor sanitation
2Lack of clean water
3Fecal contamination of water
4Crowded conditions
5Humanitarian crises
6Natural disasters
7No prior immunity
8Type O blood (more severe)
9Reduced stomach acid

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Stool culture
  • 2Rapid dipstick tests
  • 3Dark-field microscopy
  • 4PCR testing
  • 5Clinical diagnosis in outbreak settings

Prognosis

Excellent with prompt rehydration. Up to 50% mortality without treatment; <1% with proper care. Recovery rapid with fluids. Can be fatal within hours in severe cases. Short-term immunity after infection.

Prevention

  • Safe drinking water
  • Proper sanitation
  • Hand washing
  • Food safety
  • Cholera vaccines (oral)
  • Rapid response to outbreaks
  • Water treatment
  • Health education

Research Status

Oral rehydration solution (ORS) is lifesaving. IV fluids for severe cases. Antibiotics shorten duration. Vaccines available for outbreak control. Research on improved vaccines and water sanitation interventions ongoing.

Affected Countries

YemenSOHaitiDR CongoEthiopiaKenyaTanzaniaBangladeshIndiaPakistanNPMMSSMaliNETDNigeriaSLLRGNMGMozambiqueMalawiZambiaZimbabwe

Sources

  • https://www.cdc.gov/cholera
  • https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cholera
  • https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cholera

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.