Cholera Outbreak in Gaidataar: A Lesson for Further Strengthening the Task Force for Epidemic Management in Nepal

Cholera is an acute enteric infection caused by the ingestion of bacterium Vibrio cholerae(1). Cholera is transmitted through contaminated food and water. Prevention and preparedness of cholera require a coordinated multi-disciplinary approach. The extremely short incubation period enhances the potentially explosive pattern of outbreaks. Cholera can lead to severe dehydration and death if left untreated. The laboratory testing is required for antimicrobial sensitivity testing and for confirming the end of an outbreak. Provision of safe drinking water, proper sanitation, and food safety are critical for preventing occurrence of cholera. Health education aims at communities adopting preventive behavior for averting contamination. Specific training for all the staffs about proper case management including avoidance of noso-comial infection (like face masks, gloves, antiseptic solution, hand scrubs). Sufficient pre-positioned medical supplies for case management (diarrhoeal disease kits, iv fluids, antibiotics, safety measures). Improved access to water, effective sanitation, proper waste management and vector control. Improved communication and public information. Oral Rehydration Salts can treat 80% of cholera1. Appropriate antibiotics can reduce the duration of purging. With a well and properly managed team of health experts with all essential medicines and a good rapid response team, any outbreak can be prevented, controlled and managed.