Cholera

Cholera (Vibrio cholerae) Cholera is caused by the bacterium vibrio cholerae that produce cholera toxin (abbreviated CTX) in the small intestine. It interferes with the flow of sodium and chloride, which cause the body to release large amounts of water, leading to diarrhea and loss of fluids and salt. Cholera can be transmitted through drinking water and food, such as grains, raw fruits and vegetables. Undercooked or raw seafood from contaminated water can also be the source of infection. In the United States, a few people were infected by cholera after eating undercooked or raw shellfish from the gulf of Mexico.
 * What causes it? How is it transmitted?**



(Bacterium vibrio cholerae)

It usually takes one to five days for the infection to spread out. The symptoms of cholera can be mild diarrhea without any other signs. It begins with stomach pains and mild fever. Then vomit and diarrhea begins, often containing white flecks the size of rice, they are mucus and epithelial cells. Other symptoms includ floppy skin and muscle cramps, children often appear to be more restless because of the disturbance of the electrolyte (salt) balance. Cholera is deadly, because it causes dehydration and if the fluid isn't replaced, it can be fatal.
 * What are the symptoms? How long do they last? Is it deadly?**

Early treatments of cholera include taking antibiotics such as Vibramycin-D (doxycycline) which stops the spread of infection. It can also be treated by drinking large amounts of water, fluid replacement usually invovles ora re-hydration solution, this is a package mixed with water, salt and sugar that should be drank in large amounts.
 * Can it be cured? If so, how? If not, is there any way that we can at least treat it?**

(Cholera treatments)

//How is cholera transmitted.// (2011, August 20). Retrieved from: [] Schoenstadt, Arthur. (2007, January 30). //Scientific name for cholera.// Retrieved from: [] //How is cholera transmitted.// (2011). Retrieved from: [] //Cholera causes.// (2011, August 2). Retrieved from: [] Easmon, Charlie. (2009, August 20). //Cholera.// Retrieved from: []
 * Bibliography**