Final answer:
The major symptom of cholera is profuse, watery diarrhea, which can lead to severe dehydration. It is treated with oral rehydration salts or intravenous fluids and antibiotics. Prevention includes improving sanitation, access to clean water, hygiene education, thorough cooking of food, and water treatment.
Step-by-step explanation:
The major symptom of cholera is profuse, watery diarrhea that can quickly lead to severe dehydration. This condition is caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, which produces a toxin that stimulates the intestinal cells to release water and electrolytes into the intestinal lumen. The rapid loss of fluids often results in additional symptoms such as muscle cramps, due to the loss of salts and minerals.
Cholera is treated primarily with oral rehydration salts (ORS), a mixture of clean water, salts, and glucose designed to replenish fluids and electrolytes. In more severe cases, intravenous fluids may be necessary. Additionally, antibiotics can shorten the course of the illness and mitigate the severity of symptoms. As cholera can be life-threatening, rapid treatment is crucial.
Preventive strategies for cholera transmission in at-risk areas include improving sanitation, ensuring access to clean water, educating the public about proper hygiene practices, cooking food thoroughly, and using water treatment methods such as boiling, chlorination, and filtration to make water safe for drinking. Vaccines are also available for cholera, although they are not typically part of routine immunization programs.