Cholera due to Vibrio cholerae 01, biovar cholerae Save

Cholera due to Vibrio cholerae 01, biovar cholerae

Cholera is an acute, diarrheal illness caused by infection of the intestine with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. The disease has a short incubation period and produces an enterotoxin that causes a copious, painless, watery diarrhea that can quickly lead to severe dehydration and death if treatment is not promptly given.

Vibrio cholerae 01, biovar cholerae is the most common source of cholera. It is a Gram-negative, comma-shaped, motile bacterium that is found in brackish water or in coastal areas of the Indian Ocean, Mediterranean Sea and the Caribbean Sea. It is a facultative anaerobe that can survive in a variety of environments, including the human intestine.

Vibrio cholerae 01, biovar cholerae produces an enterotoxin that binds to the intestinal wall and stimulates the production of large amounts of water and electrolytes in the intestine. This causes severe diarrhea and dehydration. The severe dehydration can lead to shock, coma and death within hours.

The primary mode of transmission of Vibrio cholerae 01, biovar cholerae is through contaminated food or water. Contamination can occur due to poor sanitation of food and water supplies or due to the contamination of water sources by sewage. The bacterium can also be spread through contact with an infected person or through contact with contaminated objects such as clothing or bedding.

Vibrio cholerae 01, biovar cholerae can be diagnosed by examining a stool sample for the presence of the bacterium. Treatment of cholera caused by Vibrio cholerae 01, biovar cholerae includes fluid and electrolyte replacement, antibiotics and zinc supplementation.

Prevention of cholera due to Vibrio cholerae 01, biovar cholerae includes improved sanitation, adequate treatment of water sources, food handling practices and hand washing. Vaccines are available and can help to reduce the risk of infection.

In conclusion, Vibrio cholerae 01, biovar cholerae is the most common source of cholera and is a Gram-negative, comma-shaped, motile bacterium that is found in brackish water or in coastal areas. It can be spread through contaminated food or water and contact with an infected person or contaminated objects. Diagnosis and treatment of cholera due to Vibrio cholerae 01, biovar cholerae includes fluid and electrolyte replacement