Cholera

Excerpt

Cholera is an acute secretory diarrheal illness caused by the bacteria Vibrio cholerae. It is estimated to cause upwards of four million cases per year, worldwide. High-volume fluid loss with electrolyte derangements that can progress to hypovolemic shock and ultimately death characterizes this gastrointestinal disease. The infection is transmitted via the fecal-oral route and can vary in severity. The key is replacing the fluid and electrolytes lost as soon as possible.