Cholera is an infection in the small intestines. The main symptoms are watery diarrhea and vomiting. It gets transmitted mainly through contaminated food or water. The continuous vomiting can sometimes lead to dehydration. Worldwide it affects 3-5 million people every year, also causing 100,000-130,000 deaths a year.
The diagnosis of cholera is with a rapid dip stick test; if positive then they carry out further tests to determine the anti-biotic resistance. In an epidemic, short examinations and history may be used to make the diagnosis.
However, preventing this disease is not difficult. Sanitation is one of the main ways in which this disease can be prevented; in developed countries with high levels of sanitation cholera is not a major health threat. Things that come into contact with cholera should be sterilized by washing with hot water. Sewage should also be treated with anti-bacterial, as well as water sterilization should all be done to keep cholera out.
Cholera may currently be present in Asia, Middle East, Africa, parts of Europe, South and Central America, including Mexico.
