Cholera

Question 1

Cause

Answer 1

Gram-negative bacteria Vibrio cholerae. The bacteria is curved and rod-shaped. It is usually found in brackish waters.

Question 2

Effects

Answer 2

Contains CTX toxin which upsets the levels of sodium and chloride ions and hence water transport in the small intestines => significant loss of water in patients manifest as watery diarrhea and severe vomiting

Question 3

Treatment

Answer 3

• Replacing the lost fluids and ions via IV transfusions or by ingesting clean water mixed with glucose and rehydration salts. Glucose can help provide energy for victims who have not been able to retain food in their bodies, and salt aids cells in homeostasis restoration.
• Bacteriophages (no longer in use)
• Antibiotics (leads to AMR)

Question 4

Bacteriophages

Answer 4

• Infect bacteria and force them to produce more phages, hence destroying them in the process.
• Composed of genetic information surrounded by a protein coat (capsid). Neck and helical sheath and legs assist in the injection of genetic material into bacteria.

Question 5

Transmission of disease

Answer 5

Via the faecal-oral route (e.g. drinking from a water supply contaminated with infected excrement/ infected individuals not enacting sufficient hygienic practices => bacteria potentially spreads to food during cooking).

Question 6

Infection mechanism

Answer 6

The bacteria enter the human body via ingestion of infected foods or drinks.

Question 7

Prevention

Answer 7

Good sanitation, hygienic practices, clean drinking water.