The state health department confirmed that the death of Ajaichandran, a 63-year-old resident of Kawdiar, was due to cholera.
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala health department on Monday issued an alert following the first reported Cholera death in the state this year.
Health Minister Veena George urged the people to exercise caution while consuming water and food. In the event of any suspected symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, fever, muscle cramps and nausea, people should seek immediate medical help, she said.
The state health department confirmed that the death of Ajaichandran, a 63-year-old resident of Kawdiar, was due to cholera. The blood samples were tested positive for cholera, and the death has been officially recorded on the Integrated Disease Surveillance Project (IDPS) portal as the first cholera death reported in the state since 2017.
The health department has issued an advisory asking people to drink only boiled and cooled water, avoid stale food, consume fruits and vegetables that are thoroughly washed and maintain personal hygiene. While the health officials have intensified surveillance measures in the wake of the case, they said no symptoms have been reported among the family members of the deceased, hospital staff and other people who came into contact with the cholera victim. All have been given preventive medication.
Cholera prevention guidelines issued by the health department.
Drink only boiled and cooled water.
Consume only properly cooked food
Avoid keeping food and water uncovered
Wash hands thoroughly before and after preparing food
Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly in clean water before consuming
Wash hands with soap after using the toilet and before meals
Keep the surroundings clean and hygienic
In case of diarrhoea, vomiting, drink plenty of fluids
ORS solution is highly recommended
Seek medical attention soon after the first sign of symptoms
Cholera, a type of diarrhoeal disease, is caused by the bacterium Vibrio Cholerae. If not treated properly, it can spread rapidly. Even after the symptoms subside among the affected persons, the bacteria may continue to be transmitted for several days. Cholera typically spreads through contaminated water and food. After entering the body, symptoms may appear within a few hours to up to five days.
