Question

Write a note on treatment given in cholera.

Answer 1

Cholera is the bacterial infection caused by the Vibrio cholerae. It is transmitted through contaminated water and causes severe dehydration even death. Thus, it requires immediate treatment such as

Rehydration by the use of ORS solution to replace lost fluids and electrolytes

Intravenous fluids- During a cholera epidemic, most people can be helped by oral rehydration alone, but severely dehydrated people may also need intravenous fluids.

Antibiotics- While antibiotics are not a necessary part of cholera treatment, some of these drugs may reduce both the amount and duration of cholera-related diarrhea. A single dose of doxycycline (Monodox, Oracea, Vibramycin) or azithromycin (Zithromax, Zmax) may be effective.

Zinc supplements- Research has shown that zinc may decrease and shorten the duration of diarrhea in children with cholera.