Enhancing sanitation is a critical defense against the deadly cholera outbreak, according to ET HealthWorld.

New Delhi: Cholera, a deadly waterborne disease caused by the Vibrio cholerae bacteria, poses a significant threat to global public health. The World Health Organization estimates that cholera claims the lives of between 21,000 and 143,000 people annually, with low- and middle-income countries being disproportionately affected. The disease spreads primarily through contaminated water sources and inadequate sanitation infrastructure.

Contaminated water, often tainted with Vibrio cholerae from fecal matter, serves as a major source of infection. Dr. Sanjay Khanna, Director and HOD of Gastroenterology at Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, emphasized the role of contaminated water and poor sanitation facilities in transmitting cholera. He highlighted the risks associated with drinking or using contaminated water for daily activities like cooking and bathing.

Cholera transmission is amplified in warmer climates with increased rainfall, which create conducive environments for cholera germs to thrive in water sources. Floods exacerbate the issue by exposing environments to contaminated water and the lack of proper sanitation facilities. Dr. Khanna stressed the importance of understanding seasonal trends and implementing preventive measures to curb cholera outbreaks.

In both rural and urban areas, challenges differ when it comes to controlling cholera outbreaks. Densely populated urban areas with limited access to clean water and sanitation facilities can facilitate the spread of cholera, while poor sanitation infrastructure and lack of clean water sources in rural regions pose unique challenges. Customized interventions that focus on increasing awareness and access to sanitary facilities are crucial in tackling these complex issues.

Boiling water, improving hand hygiene, and avoiding cross-contamination are key strategies to prevent cholera transmission. Increasing access to clean water and sanitation services is vital to curb the spread of cholera and other waterborne diseases. By investing in infrastructure related to water and sanitation, promoting hygiene education, and encouraging multisectoral collaboration, we can effectively address the underlying causes of cholera and improve public health outcomes globally.