Describe cholera, including its cause, transmission, and symptoms.

a) Cholera is an acute diarrheal infection caused by ingesting food or water contaminated with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It can cause severe dehydration and is potentially life-threatening if untreated.

b) The causal organism is Vibrio cholerae.

c) Cholera is transmitted through: 1. Contaminated water sources (e.g., drinking water, ice). 2. Contaminated food (e.g., raw or undercooked seafood, unpeeled fruits/vegetables). 3. Fecal-oral route (poor hygiene, direct contact with feces of an infected person). 4. Unsanitary conditions (lack of proper sewage treatment).

d) The signs and symptoms of cholera include:

• Profuse watery diarrhea (often described as "rice-water stools").
• Vomiting.
• Rapid heart rate.
• Loss of skin turgor (skin stays pinched when pulled).
• Dry mucous membranes.
• Low blood pressure.
• Muscle cramps.
• Severe dehydration.