By NewsDesk @bactiman63
With more than two dozen countries reporting cholera cases, US health officials warn a traveler could arrive in the United States with cholera at any time.
According to a Alabama Department of Public Health alert (via CDC information), eight cases have been reported among travelers returning from Pakistan, Iraq, and Bangladesh through November 28 in the United States.
Officials note that sustained community transmission in the United States is unlikely due to reliable water, sanitation, and hygiene infrastructures. However, cholera is often not considered as a possible cause of watery diarrhea among returning U.S. travelers, which can result in delayed treatment and death.
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and ADPH recommend cholera vaccination for people traveling to or living in areas of active cholera transmission. This might include visiting or working in areas experiencing cholera outbreaks or during humanitarian crises.
Travelers are encouraged to check CDC’s Travel Health Notices website to identify areas with active cholera transmission and to visit a doctor or travel clinic to talk about vaccination.
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Cholera is an acute diarrheal infection caused by ingestion of food or water contaminated with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. People who develop watery diarrhea within 5 days after being in any country where cholera is occurring should seek medical care immediately and inform the clinician about their travel history.
