How is cholera treated?

Cholera is an acute diarrheal illness caused by infection with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, which can lead to severe dehydration and death if not treated promptly and effectively.

Key insights from the research papers include:

Rehydration with oral rehydration salts (ORS) or intravenous fluids is the cornerstone of cholera treatment, significantly reducing mortality when properly administered .
Antibiotics such as tetracycline, doxycycline, norfloxacin, ciprofloxacin, and furazolidone can shorten the duration of symptoms and reduce the volume of diarrheal output in severe cases, although resistance is a concern .
Zinc supplementation is recommended for all children between six months and five years to aid in recovery.
Antisecretory drugs have been tested but have not been found useful in the treatment of cholera.
Infection control measures, including hand hygiene and water decontamination, are crucial for preventing the spread of cholera, especially during outbreaks .

In conclusion, the effective management of cholera relies on rapid rehydration using ORS or intravenous fluids, with antibiotics and zinc supplementation serving as adjunct therapies in severe cases. Prevention of spread through proper hygiene and water treatment is also essential. Despite the simplicity and low cost of these treatments, access remains a challenge in many parts of the developing world.

How is cholera treated?

Summary

Sources and full results

Corpses and the spread of cholera

Proper handwashing before preparing food, disinfecting corpses, and avoiding funeral feasts for cholera victims can help prevent outbreaks and reduce cholera mortality rates.

Antagonism of Cholera Enterotoxin by Anti-inflammatory Agents in the Rat

Oral anti-inflammatory agents can effectively reverse cholera enterotoxin-induced fluid and electrolyte loss, potentially simplifying treatment during large-scale epidemics.

Case management of cholera.

Cholera can be effectively managed with oral rehydration solution, rapid intravenous rehydration, antibiotics, and zinc supplements, reducing mortality to around 1% in resource-poor settings.

An evaluation of current cholera treatment

Current cholera treatment focuses on rehydration, antibiotics, and feeding, with resistance to some drugs a concern.

Practical Guidelines for the Treatment of Cholera

Rapid diagnosis and aggressive fluid therapy are crucial for treating cholera, with intravenous solutions for severe dehydration and oral rehydration solutions for most patients.

A clinical trial of oral therapy in a rural cholera-treatment center.

Oral therapy combined with intravenous fluid effectively maintains fluid balance in cholera patients, requiring 70% less intravenous fluid than previously.

Cholera in the perspective of 1966.

The U.S. Navy method of treating cholera has reduced mortality rates to zero in uncomplicated cases, making it suitable for epidemics in populations with no experience in cholera.

A comprehensive review of therapeutic approaches available for the treatment of cholera

Therapeutic alternatives for cholera treatment include oral rehydration solutions and molecules targeting the cholera toxin's physiopathology.

Oral fluid therapy of cholera among Bangladesh refugees.

Oral glucose-electrolyte solutions are a cost-effective, safe, and accessible treatment for cholera, especially when used early in the disease course.

Cholera Outbreak in Gaidataar: A Lesson for Further Strengthening the Task Force for Epidemic Management in Nepal.

A coordinated multi-disciplinary approach, including safe drinking water, proper sanitation, and food safety, is crucial for preventing and managing cholera outbreaks in Nepal.

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