Chile: Cholera outbreak in the capital region

Event

A cholera outbreak has been reported the Santiago Metropolitan Region. A total of 29 confirmed cases were reported between June and late September in the communes of La Florida, Huechuraba, Las Condes, Vitacura, La Reina, Peñalolén, Puente Alto, La Cisterna, Pedro Aguirre Cerda, Santiago, Maipú, Estación Central, Renca, Quinta Normal, Conchalí, Independencia, Recoleta, and Providencia. Two further cases have been reported in the Valparaíso and Atacama regions. No deaths have been reported thus far. The cause of the outbreak has not been determined.

Context

Cholera, an infectious disease caused by the Vibrio cholerae bacterium. Cholera is typically spread via infected water supplies and induces acute diarrhea leading to severe dehydration, frequently resulting in death. The risk of death is greatest among people with compromised immune systems, such as malnourished children or those living with HIV. However, even among healthy adults, cholera can be fatal within a matter of hours.

Advice

To reduce the risk of contracting cholera, wash hands regularly, drink only bottled or purified water, and avoid eating raw or undercooked foods. Individuals who believe they may have contracted cholera should seek immediate medical attention.