Two more cases of cholera, from Jiyaguda and Khairatabad in the city, have been confirmed by district health authorities. Incidentally, this is the second instance of a cholera confirmation from Jiyaguda area, the first being reported in July.
Health authorities, while maintaining that the cases are sporadic in nature, added that this time around the virulence or intensity of cholera and its impact on patients is negligible.
“The cases have come to light during our health camps, which are being organised in the traditional high risk zones in the city between August 1 and 15. So far, cholera cases have been sporadic and there are no indications of outbreak. We suspect contaminated water and stale food as the prime reasons for cholera,” says District Health and Medical Officer (DM&HO) Dr. Narendrudu.
Senior doctors say that patients with cholera-like symptoms are able to recover within three days of administering Tetracycline, a broad spectrum antibiotic that can be effective against a host of bacteria. Traditionally, the Tetracycline antibiotics have been the drugs of choice against Vibrio cholerae bacteria, which is responsible for causing cholera.
Efforts are already under way to distribute as many drugs as possible to residents at high-risk areas, officials said. “I would request the public to rush to a general physician if diarrhoea continues for more than three days. Public should take care of their personal hygiene, which is very important during this time of the year,” he said.
