TV
As cholera is spreading its tentacles across Odisha, affecting several districts at an alarming rate, it is essential to stay informed about its causes, symptoms, and preventive steps. From maintaining hygiene at home to ensuring community-level sanitation, awareness and timely action are crucial in curbing the disease’s spread.
Speaking to OTV, Dr. Abhijeet Chhatoi, and Dr. Mandeep Singh of the Department of Community Medicine, SCB MCH, shared some vital information on causes, symptoms and prevention of cholera.
The following article addresses the most pressing questions surrounding cholera prevention and management, tailored to help individuals and families stay safe during an outbreak.
What causes cholera, and how does it spread?
Dr Abhijeet Chhatoi explained that cholera is caused by Vibrio cholerae. “It spreads through the faeco-oral route, mainly via contaminated food and water, sharing of personal items, and poor sanitation, especially in overcrowded areas,” he said.
What are the early signs and symptoms to watch for?
“Early signs include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and sudden, painless watery diarrhoea with a rice-water appearance. If not managed promptly, it can lead to severe dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, hypovolemic shock, and even death,” Dr Chhatoi noted.
How can we prevent cholera at home and in the community?
Dr Chhatoi advised boiling water or using chlorine tablets, storing it in clean containers, and avoiding sources like ponds or rivers. “Eat freshly cooked food, avoid undercooked seafood and street food, and wash fruits and vegetables with safe water,” he said.
“Wash hands before handling food, after toilet use, and after caring for sick persons,” he added. Safe disposal of faeces and disinfection of contaminated surfaces with bleach is also crucial.
In the community, he recommended protecting water sources, chlorinating supplies, repairing taps, building toilets, and promoting hygiene. “Oral Cholera Vaccine (OCV) in high-risk or endemic areas, early reporting of symptoms are key,” he added.
Is it safe to drink tap or well water? How can we make water safe?
“Tap or well water is unsafe during outbreaks,” warned Dr Chhatoi. “Boiling is the most effective method. Chlorination and filtration with ceramic or membrane filters (<0.3 microns pore size) followed by disinfection, are also effective. Solar disinfection (SODIS) can be used in emergencies.”
What food should be avoided or handled carefully to prevent cholera?
“Street food and meals from restaurants should be avoided during outbreaks,” Dr Chhatoi cautioned. “Only eat well-cooked home food and drink boiled or safely treated water.”
How important is handwashing, and when should it be done?
“Handwashing is critically important,” said Dr Chhatoi. “Wash hands before eating, preparing food, after using the toilet, after cleaning a child who has defecated, after handling raw food, and after contact with waste or a sick person.”
What’s the safest way to dispose of human waste in an outbreak?
Dr Mandeep Singh stressed the importance of sanitation. “Use hygienic toilets and isolate waste from water sources. Avoid open defecation and practice regular handwashing,” he said.
Are there specific disinfectants that kill cholera-causing bacteria?
“Yes,” said Dr Singh. “Effective disinfectants include sodium hypochlorite, calcium hydroxide, Lysol, formalin, and isopropyl alcohol.”
What should we do if someone shows symptoms of cholera?
“The priority is to maintain hydration using ORS and immediately take the patient to the nearest hospital,” Dr Singh advised. “Ensure good hygiene during care.”
How quickly should someone with diarrhoea or vomiting be treated?
“Rehydration must begin at the earliest sign of diarrhoea,” Dr Singh said. “Hospital evaluation is necessary to confirm or rule out cholera.”
What should we do during a local outbreak to stay safe?
“Drink safe water, eat clean food, wash hands frequently, and use hygienic toilets,” advised Dr Singh. “If diarrhoea occurs, seek medical help immediately.”
What precautions should travellers take when going to high-risk areas?
“Follow all food and water precautions and maintain strict hygiene,” said Dr Singh. “Prophylactic antibiotics may be used, but only under medical supervision.”
