by Ayesha Ayath Aslam
Infectious diseases specialist, Diyani Dewasurendra gives an insight on what the first 72 hours of cholera outbreak may look like & how to deal with it.
In crisis zones, cholera can kill in just hours, so every hour counts! Beat the disease by acting twice as fast and plan strategically.
A spike in severe diarrhea cases, might hint at a cholera outbreak. But confirm this immediately through lab tests.
Track symptoms, test samples, monitor case numbers & identify patterns for early detection. Speedy confirmation helps with faster response.
Once confirmed, the top priority should be to prevent its spread, alongside treating patients. Take all necessary preventative measures.
MSF’s emergency response included: setting up an isolation ward, installing handwashing stations, and educating the public — about hygiene, cholera, its symptoms and the red flags.
Lack of access to clean water can escalate the disease. Investigate potential sources of contamination, test the water quality & take care of it immediately.
MSF distributed clean water, installed sanitation facilities, used charcoal filters or chlorine treatment to improve the water supply in the long-term.
Pay attention to stopping the spread altogether. And that is, with vaccination. In crisis areas, people are not generally skeptical but unaware of its existence.
Community health workers must explain the purpose & benefits of vaccination. Firstly, protect the medical team, and then begin the large-scale rollout for the affected communities.
Remember, the first 72 hours’ response determines if it was a success or a disaster. Vaccines, and long-term solutions are the vital & most powerful tool to fight against epidemics — for good.