Cholera is caused by infection with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. Once ingested, this bacterium multiplies in the small intestine and releases a toxin that causes the severe, watery diarrhea characteristic of the disease. The infection spreads primarily through the fecal-oral route, meaning a person consumes water or food that has been contaminated with the feces of someone carrying the bacterium. This is common in areas with poor sanitation and inadequate water treatment.
Public awareness is the cornerstone of cholera prevention. Since the disease spreads through contaminated water and food, informed communities can take proactive measures. Awareness campaigns educate people on the critical importance of using clean water, practicing proper hand hygiene with soap, safely preparing food, and using sanitation facilities. This knowledge empowers individuals to break the chain of transmission themselves, preventing isolated cases from turning into large-scale outbreaks.