Two more persons test positive for Cholera in Thiruvananthapuram, health department steps up preventive measures

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Two more persons have tested positive for Cholera in Thiruvananthapuram. The two with symptoms were under treatment at a private care home in Neyyatinkara. After their samples returned positive, three people have been confirmed with cholera in the capital. The health department informed that the health condition of all those undergoing treatment is satisfactory.

Meanwhile, the source of the disease is yet to be found. With this, four cases of cholera have been confirmed in the state. Earlier one case was confirmed in Kasaragod.

With the two fresh cases in Neyyattinkara, the health department has intensified preventive measures. The health minister had informed that if more patients seek treatment, they must be admitted to the isolation ward in Iranimuttom for expert care.

As some people in care homes have gone home, they will be found and kept under observation. If they or their family members show symptoms, samples will be tested and treatment will be provided. Some of the children in the institution's own school were also given specialist care as they developed symptoms. Prevention activities have been strengthened in the school as well.

Cholera is a diarrheal disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. This disease can spread quickly if not taken care of. Even if the symptoms of the disease go away, a person can still remain contagious for a few more days. Cholera is usually spread through contaminated water and food. A person can develop symptoms within a few hours to 5 days after the germs enter the body.

Cholera is characterized by sudden, severe, painless, watery (often porridge-like) diarrhea. This is often accompanied by vomiting. As a result, the patient may quickly become dehydrated and feel lethargic. If not treated properly, the disease can turn serious rather quickly.