How To Prevent Cholera
Apart from contaminated food, poor hygiene, deficiency of acid in
stomach or overuse of anti-acidity drugs could be possible causes.
Cholera
The monsoon brings respite from the scorching summer heat but also
brings several water related diseases along with it. Cholera is a
common but acute disease, which occurs due to intestinal infection
caused by the intake of contaminated food or water.
Causes
Apart from contaminated food, poor hygiene, deficiency of acid in
stomach due to certain disease or overuse of anti-acidity drugs
could be some possible causes.
Symptoms
After incubation period of 2 to 3 days (or sometimes a few hours),
cholera is characteristic in its severe form. The most common
symptom of cholera is diarrhoea, which could range from mild,
uncomplicated diarrhoea to severe potentially fatal disease. Other
symptoms are:
· Abdominal or leg cramps/pains
· Sudden onset of watery diarrhoea
· A rapid onset of dehydration
· Excessive thirst, dryness of skin and mouth
· Low urine output; nausea and vomiting
· Lowered blood pressure; unusual sleepiness or tiredness
Prevention
Cholera can occur in any place
where the water supply, sanitation, food safety, and hygiene are
inadequate. A severe case of cholera can lead to death without
immediate treatment. Some preventive measures to be kept in mind
are:
· Drink only boiled water or water that has been with chlorine are
iodine.
· Carry your own water, preferably bottled
· Avoid uncooked or undercooked food; eat food only when hot
· Ensure proper sanitation and water purification
· Take vaccination against
cholera.
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