Public Health Service Announcement Julie Duarte Grand Canyon University

What is Cholera  It is an acute, diarrheal illness caused by infection of the intestine with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae.  It can be life threatening if left untreated  Due to the source of exposure it can affect millions.

An estimated 3-5 million cases found worldwide. Over 100,000 deaths occur each year around the world.

Sources  Contaminated food or water  Most commonly found and spread in places with inadequate water treatment, poor sanitation, and inadequate hygiene.  Usually occurs in third world countries due to slack environmental laws

Signs & Symptoms  Profuse watery diarrhea  Vomiting  Leg cramps  Dehydration  Shock  If left untreated death can occur

Treatment Can be simple and successful  Immediate replacement of the fluid and salts lost through diarrhea  IV fluid replacement  Antibiotics

Prevention  Drink and use only bottled, canned, boiled, or chemically treated, water  Wash your hands with clean soap and water or use hand sanitizer  Avoid tap water, soda, and ice in known areas where there is Cholera  Eat foods that are packaged or that are freshly cooked and served hot.  Dispose of feces in a sanitary method to prevent contamination of water and food sources  Do not eat raw and undercooked meats, seafood, or unpeeled fruits and vegetables.

How you can help  Volunteer to help clean up  Educate communities in high risk areas  Donate food, bottled water, supplies, or even money to help with clean water efforts

Websites to visit    

Music: Vicious Kicks. (n.d.). SoundCloud. Retrieved from Sw2i5 Content: Cholera - Vibrio cholerae infection. (2014). Centers for disease control & prevention. Retrieved from