Cholera is a serious bacterial disease that usually causes severe diarrhea and dehydration. The disease is typically spread through contaminated water. Modern sewage and water treatment have effectively eliminated cholera in most countries. It’s still a problem in countries like Asia, America and Africa. Mostly in India. Countries affected by war, poverty, and natural disasters have the greatest risk for a cholera outbreak. Taxonomy: class : Gamma Proteobacteria Order: Vibrionales Family: Vibrionaceae Genus: Vibrio Species: v.cholerae, v.parahaemolyticus, v. vulnificus, v. alginolyticus MORPHOLOGY: Gram negative, actively motile, short, rigid curved bacilli Resembling letter “V” about 34 genus most common in water 1.5µ X 0.2 -0.4 µ in size polar flagellum , strongly aerobic Smear – fish in stream appearance PATHOGENESIS: Source: Ingestion of contaminated water, food, fruits and vegetables etc., Incubation periods: 1-5 days Symptoms: Watery diarrhoea, vomiting, thirst, dehydration, muscle cramps Complications: muscular pain, renal failure, pulmonary edema, cardiac arrhythrnias DIAGNOSIS: Specimen: stool sample, water sample(envt) Microscopy: a) Hanging drop : +ve b) Gram stain :-ve Culture: Mac conkey Agar :colourless to light pink TCBS : yellow colonies Serology: serological tests are no diagnostic value TREATMENT: Adequate replacement of fluids and electrolytes. Oral tetracycline reduces the period of vibrio excreation. PREVENTION: Drink and use bottled water Frequent washing Sanitary environment Defecate in water Cook food thoroughly