Monday, October 3, 2016

Cholera is back in Town: What You Should Know About Cholera

Cholera is an acute diarrhea disease caused by bacteria known as Vibro Cholerae which is transmitted through indigestion of contaminated food and water. Human faeces is said to be the carrier of the bacteria.

According to Punch Newspaper, 6 persons reportedly died of cholera in Lagos Nigeria after eating a contaminated food- Abacha (Abacha is a Nigerian local delicacy that is made from cassava) while 39 persons are under observation. This is not the first time that people are getting infected with cholera through this local delicacy.

Typical Symptoms of Cholera


Symptoms can be mild or severe and can last for days. The symptoms include:

  •     Stooling (rice water diarrhea)
  •     Vomiting
  •   Dehydration


Treatment of Cholera


Cholera can kill within hours if left untreated (WHO).

Cholera can be treated using Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS). But people with any of the symptoms listed above are advised to seek medical attention immediately.


Preventing Cholera (Re-occurrence)


Once there is a case of cholera within a community or household it is advisable that adequate care is taken to prevent reoccurrence of sure outbreak among non-infected persons.

  •       Properly dispose waste from infected persons.
  •         Sterilize all utensils used by infected persons.


General Preventive Measures(Cholera Prevention)


As the saying goes-Prevention is better than cure. To ensure that there is not an outbreak of cholera in your neighborhood, do the following:


  •      Properly dispose all wastes. Sewages should not be channeled toward water bodies or your source of water.
  •        Always keep your environment clean.
  •         Ensure your foods are properly cooked.
  •         Drink clean water.
  •         If you must eat out, patronize food vendors with good track record of hygiene.

Remember that your health lies in your hand. Take good take of it.

Keep Living the Ace Life!!!

Source:

  • Punch Newspaper:http://punchng.com/cholera-kills-six-lagos-39-observation/

  • World Health Organization: http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs107/en/

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