Cholera menace, what you need to know

In the past one month, 65 people have died while 326 cases of cholera outbreak have been reported in different parts of Kenya, most recent case being 3 inmates who died at Shimo La Tewa prison in Mombasa while 30 others isolated after showing cholera symptoms. The rise in cases has been blamed on heavy rains in different parts of Kenya region that have polluted drinking water supplies.

Cholera, a highly contagious intestinal infection, is transmitted by water soiled by human waste.

 Cholera is an infection of the intestine by the bacterium vibrio cholarae with some types producing more severe disease than others, it can be successfully treated with oral rehydration salts but it can kill within hours if left untreated.

Cholera is typically transmitted to humans by either contaminated food or water. Most cholera cases are a result of transmission by food and water.

SYMPTOMS

·      The primary symptoms of cholera are profuse diarrhea  and vomiting of clear fluid  it starts half a day to five days after ingestion of the bacteria

• Rapid heart rate
• Loss of skin elasticity (the ability to return to original position quickly if pinched)
• Dry mucous membranes, including the inside of the mouth, throat, nose, and eyelids
• Low blood pressure
• Thirst.
• Muscle cramps

PREVENTION

•          Wash hands with soap and water frequently, especially after using the toilet and before handling food
•          Drink only safe water, including bottled water or water you've boiled or disinfected yourself. 
•          Eat food that's completely cooked and hot and avoid street vendor food, if possible.
•          Avoid raw or improperly cooked fish and seafood of any kind.

• Stick to fruits and vegetables that you can peel yourself, such as bananas, oranges and avocados. Stay away from salads and fruits that can't be peeled, such as grapes and berries.
• Be wary of dairy foods, including ice cream, which is often contaminated, and unpasteurized milk.