KEMRI clarifies that new strain of cholera is treatable

KEMRI Communications Officer, Wodera James said that all bacteria causing cholera are treatable through proper diagnosis and treatment by a qualified doctor.

He noted that information in some publications was alarmist noting that the way out is to use preventive measures.

“Even the ESBL cholera strains reported by sections of the media are responsive to Doxycycline, Ciprofloxacin and to more than five other classes of drugs,” said Wodera and added, “Hence there is no cause of alarm.”

Wodera urged the public to maintain clean environments as well as eating hygienically prepared food to prevent cholera infection which is mainly transmitted through food and water.

In a telephone interview, Wodera said that it was instructive to note that drugs are not the first line of management to a cholera case as it is mainly managed through the restoration of fluids in the body.

“It is instructive to note that drugs are not the first line of management to a cholera case, but the restoration of IV fluids or Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) is the most effective method,” said Wodera.

He called on the public not to panic but instead exercise high standards of personal hygiene including hand washing, drinking only boiled or treated water, and eating hygienically prepared food.