Cholera

Cholera is characterized by sudden onset. Within several hours or days after ingesting V. cholerae, severe diarrhea and vomiting occur. Fluid losses can be up to 4-5 gal (15-20 liters) per day. As a consequence of this severe fluid loss, the eyes and cheeks can appear sunken, and the skin loses its pliancy.

Treatment of cholera involves the rapid replacement of fluid and electrolytes. Most patients can be treated using special rehydration formulations which utilize rice or grain as a base, and which are supplemented with appropriately balanced electrolytes. If a patient is too severely ill to drink even small, frequent sips, infusions of electrolytes and fluids may be necessary. Once fluid and electrolyte balance is restored, rapid reversal of symptoms occurs. Treatment with antibiotics, typically tetracycline, neutralizes the V. cholerae, and decreases the number of bacteria passed into the stool.