Cholera Outbreaks in Rainy Season

Causes

Cholera is primarily caused by the bacterium Vibrio Cholerae. In rainy climates, the bacterium finds the most congenial environment to thrive and infect people. Flooding, waterlogging, unavailability of clean drinking water and food, and poor sanitation are some of the primary triggers for cholera. In places with rainy climates, these triggers are always present and play a significant role in causing an outbreak of the deadly cholera disease.

In a flooded or waterlogged area due to heavy rains, the following causes of cholera may exist

• Unhygienic water used for consumption and other chores

• Ice made from contaminated water

• Food cooked in unclean, contaminated water

• Contaminated drinks and foods sold by roadside vendors

• Undercooked seafood or fish caught in unclean water where sewage gets disposed

• Vegetables cultivated with water containing human excreta

Management Tips

Now that you know the main triggers or causes of cholera in rainy climates, you must know what to do and what not to do to avoid getting infected by the cholera bacteria. Here are some simple management tips to save your life if you become infected with cholera:

• ORS Therapy

Dehydration is the main cause of death due to cholera. Taking ORS (oral rehydration solution) frequently can replenish lost fluids and electrolytes, potentially saving you from fatal consequences.

• Intravenous Fluids

In critical situations, intravenous fluids may be necessary to compensate for the loss of fluids due to diarrhoea and vomiting.

• Homemade ORS

If you are unable to purchase ORS from a medical store, you can make your own at home. To prepare ORS, mix 6 spoons of sugar and half a spoon of salt in 1 Liter of water. Take this solution frequently.

• Maintain Hygiene

Maintain good personal hygiene. Wash your hands properly with soap and water after using the toilet, and use hand sanitisers frequently.

• Boiled Water

Drink water only after boiling or purifying it with iodine or chlorine. This will help prevent the disease from worsening.

• Increased Fluid Intake

Increase your fluid intake. You can drink buttermilk, tender coconut water, orange juice, and herbal teas to manage dehydration caused by diarrhoea.

• Ginger or Ginger Tea

Ginger, a commonly used kitchen spice, may help improve digestion. You can either consume grated ginger or drink ginger tea to enhance your digestive capacity.

• Probiotic Yoghurt

Consuming probiotic yoghurt can help combat the bacteria causing cholera. The good bacteria in probiotic yoghurt can destroy the cholera-causing bacteria.

• Zinc Supplements

Zinc supplements have shown proven results in controlling diarrhoea and reducing the duration of the illness. Therefore, consider taking zinc supplements if you are suffering from cholera.

• Antibiotics

Consult a doctor and seek treatment at the earliest opportunity. Your physician may prescribe antibiotics to eliminate the cholera bacteria and manage the severity of the disease.