Cholera 101: What You Need To Know

Cholera is an acute diarrhoeal infection transmitted through ingesting contaminated water or food. In the last two weeks, a number of Cholera cases have been reported in the country.

This outbreak, presents a hygiene challenge to all Kenyans. According to Medical News Today, only around 1 in 20 cholera infections are severe, and a high percentage of infected people show no symptoms.

If symptoms appear, they will do so between 12 hours and 5 days after exposure. They range from mild or asymptomatic to severe.

They typically include:

• Explosive Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Leg cramps
• Dehydration

WHO reports that Cholera is an extremely dangerous disease that affects both children and adults. Unlike other diarrhoeal diseases, it can kill healthy adults within hours. Individuals with lower immunity, such as malnourished children or people living with HIV, are at greater risk of death if infected by cholera.

Adding that a combined approach is key to prevent and control cholera, and to reduce deaths. A combination of surveillance, water, sanitation and hygiene, social mobilisation, treatment, and oral cholera vaccines are used.

This potential outbreak is a wake-up call to all households to ensure that they are doing everything sanitary possible to keep their families safe.

Remember: Prevention is Better than Cure.