Cholera - diarrhoea occurs without other symptoms.

Cholera is caused by the Vibrio cholerae bacteria.

Infection occurs through ingestion of food or water contaminated directly or indirectly by faeces or vomit of infected persons.

Cholera affects only humans; there is no insect vector or animal reservoir host.

Cholera is an acute enteric intestine disease varying in severity. Most infections are asymptomatic.

In mild cases, diarrhoea occurs without other symptoms. In severe cases, there is sudden onset of profuse watery diarrhoea with nausea and vomiting and rapid development of dehydration.

In severe untreated cases, death may occur within a few hours due to dehydration leading to circulatory collapse.

Cholera occurs mainly in poor countries with inadequate sanitation and lack of clean drinking water and in war-torn countries where the infrastructure may have broken down.

Many developing countries are affected, particularly those in Africa.

The risk of cholera for travellersis very low for most travellers, even in countries where cholera epidemics occur. Humanitarian relief workers in disaster areas and refugee camps are at risk.

Oral cholera vaccines Treatment for use by travellers and those in occupational risk groups are available in some countries.

All precautions should be taken to avoid consumption of potentially contaminated food, drink and drinking water.

Oral rehydration salts should be carried to combat dehydration in case of severe diarrhoea.

Gerald Crawford was born in South Africa, studied electronics, telecommunication, eco-travel and african travel concepts. He taught responsible tourism in South Africa. If you have any questions or comments please e-mail me on. E-mail Address: southafricantravelarticles@12234455.co.za Website Address: http://www.12234455.co.za