Waterborne and Foodborne Bacterial and Viral Diseases - Vibrio cholerae and Cholera

7 important questions on Waterborne and Foodborne Bacterial and Viral Diseases - Vibrio cholerae and Cholera

What are the primary modes of transmission for cholera, and why is it a significant concern?

Cholera is transmitted through contaminated water or improperly cooked shellfish. It poses a significant concern due to its potential for large-scale and rapidly developing disease outbreaks.

Explain the role of Vibrio cholerae in causing cholera and the conditions required for disease initiation.

Vibrio cholerae, a gram-negative and motile bacteria, causes cholera. Disease initiation requires the ingestion of a large number of V. cholerae cells, with stomach acidity influencing the needed inoculum.

Describe the characteristics of cholera enterotoxin and its impact on infected individuals.

Cholera enterotoxin causes severe diarrhea leading to fluid losses of up to 20 liters per day, resulting in dehydration and, if untreated, death.
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What is the preferred method for treating cholera patients during outbreaks, and why is it effective?

Oral rehydration therapy with a glucose-salt solution is the preferred treatment method. It is effective as it quickly reduces cholera mortality, providing time for patients to mount an immune response.

• What organism causes cholera, and what are the symptoms of the disease?

Vibrio cholerae bacterium causes cholera. Symptoms include severe diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration, and muscle cramps.

Why does transmission of cholera usually require a large inoculum? Under what conditions can cholera be transmitted by fewer cells?

Transmission of cholera usually requires a large inoculum because the bacteria must survive the acidic environment of the stomach in order to reach the intestine where they can multiply. However, under conditions such as compromised immunity or reduced stomach acid, fewer cells of the bacteria can still cause infection. This can happen in individuals with pre-existing health conditions or malnutrition.

Describe how cholera can be prevented and how it is treated.

Prevent with safe water, hygiene. Treat with rehydration, antibiotics. Follow medical advice.

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