While the cholera outbreak in Gandhinagar, Gujarat is a cause for concern, it is important to note that the situation is actively managed (Photo credits: Shutterstock)
Dr Falguni Iyer, Consultant Physician, Shalby Multi-Specialty Hospital, Shares Cholera Symptoms and Prevention Strategies
The Gandhinagar district administration has declared three areas within the district as “cholera affected” under the Epidemic Diseases Act following the confirmation of four cases of cholera and the identification of six suspected cases. The affected areas include Dahegam urban area, Kalol and Moti Shiholi village.
Two children from Dahegam were hospitalized on May 28 with diarrhea and subsequent tests confirmed cholera. Both children are in stable condition and are expected to make a full recovery. In Kalol, a 70-year-old woman was also hospitalized for suspected cholera. Additionally, a 4-year-old girl from Moti Shiholi village was diagnosed with cholera but has since been discharged.
Health officials suspect contaminated drinking water in Dahegam and contaminated food from street vendors in Kalol as potential sources of the outbreak. Water supply in the affected area of Dahegam has been temporarily suspended and drinking water supply is being provided through tankers.
Cholera: what you need to know
Cholera is a waterborne disease caused by the bacteria Vibrio cholerae. Outbreaks often occur due to contaminated water sources or inadequate sanitation practices. Several factors may contribute to the current situation in Gujarat:
- Water contamination: Aging or damaged water infrastructure can lead to leaks and contamination of drinking water supplies with sewage or other contaminants.
- Monsoon season: Heavy rains during the monsoon season can overwhelm sanitation systems, causing wastewater to overflow and contaminate water sources.
- Poor hygiene practices: Poor hand hygiene and open defecation can also contribute to the spread of cholera.
Cholera: symptoms and prevention
Cholera is an acute diarrheal disease caused by the bacteria Vibrio cholerae. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and include:
- Profuse watery diarrhea
- Vomiting
- rapid dehydration
- Leg cramps
Cholera can be fatal if not treated in time. Residents are advised to seek immediate medical attention if they experience these symptoms.
Expressing concern over the outbreak, Dr Iyer said: “We have seen three confirmed cases of cholera in the last 10 days, which is alarming. Cholera is a food- and water-borne disease, so hand hygiene, eating clean, cooked food and drinking water are crucial to our health. If someone develops diarrhea or vomiting, seek immediate medical help.”
While the cholera outbreak in Gandhinagar, Gujarat is a cause for concern, it is important to note that the situation is being actively managed. However, by understanding the cause and following preventive measures, we can work together to protect our communities and prevent the further spread of disease.
