Cholera: A Disease of Poverty

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Cholera: A Disease of Poverty

Cholera is an infectious intestinal disease common in Southern Asia.

Cholera is caused by a comma-shaped bacterium called Vibrio Choleras. The

microorganism is transmitted by water or food that has been contaminated

with the feces of people who have the disease. Cholera occurs when Vibrio

Cholera enters the intestines and releases Cholera toxin. The toxin causes

the intestine to secrete large amounts of water and salt. Because the

intestine cannot absorb the water and salt at the rate they are secreted,

the patient suffers severe diarrhea. This loss of fluid causes severe

dehydration and changes in the body chemistry. If untreated, the illness

can lead to shock and eventually death. With proper treatment, Cholera

lasts only a few days. Prevention of Cholera requires adequate sanitation

facilities. A vaccine against the illness has been developed, but it is

not very effective. People who travel in areas where Cholera is widespread

should not drink the local water. They should cook all foods that may have

been exposed to wat...

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