Biosphere Journal Entry
Biosphere Journal Entry
Cholera Spreads in Kenya (January 4, 2010)
Electron microscope view of bacteria that cause cholera. Wikipedia.
An outbreak of deadly cholera is sweeping over Kenya, with 5,000 cases reported in the last month alone. At least 119 people have died in the outbreak, according to health officials in the country. The hot and dry, drought-stricken northern part of the country has been hit especially hard. Because rain has been so scarce, many people are drinking dirty water that can spread the disease.
Cholera is caused by waterborne bacteria. It spreads from contaminated food and water in unsanitary conditions. The disease causes digestive symptoms that include cramps, nausea, and diarrhea. In the worst cases, it leads to a dangerous loss of water and shock. It can be fatal if not treated within 24 hours.
Acccording to the World Health Organization (WHO), cholera remains a major health threat in developing nations of the world, especially in Africa. A huge outbreak is still hitting Zimbabwe, where about 100,000 cases have been reported since August 2008. An outbreak was also reported in South Africa last year.
