infections
Cholera
Treatment of Cholera
Fluids that contain salt An antibiotic Rapid replacement of lost body water and salts is lifesaving. Most people can be treated effectively with a solution given by mouth. These solutions are designed to replace the fluids the body has lost. For severely dehydrated people who cannot drink, a salt solution is given intravenously. In epidemics, if the intravenous solution is not available, people are given a salt solution by mouth or, if needed, through a tube inserted through the nose into the stomach. After enough fluids are replaced to relieve symptoms, people should drink at least enough of the salt solution to replace the fluids they have lost through diarrhea and vomiting. People are also encouraged to drink as much water as they want. Solid foods can be eaten after vomiting stops and appetite returns. An antibiotic is usually given to reduce the severity of diarrhea and make it stop sooner. Also, people who take an antibiotic are slightly less likely to spread the infection during an outbreak. The antibioticdoxycyclineis given to all people, including children and pregnant women. Other antibiotics that may be used areazithromycinandciprofloxacin. Each of these antibiotics is taken by mouth. Doctors choose antibiotics that are known to be effective against the bacteria causing cholera in the local community. 