Vibrio cholerae
![](https://parasiteguide.libbymitchell.dcreate.domains/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/V_cholerae.jpg)
Morphological Characteristics
This bacteria is comma shaped with a flagellum that is used for movement.
Identification Methods
A stool sample is taken and tested in a culture medium that encourages growth of V. cholerae. It is almost impossible to distinguish this infection from any other that causes diarrhea.
LIFE CYCLE
- The human host ingests V. cholerae from contaminated water or food
- The bacteria penetrates mucus gel and a binding protein in order to colonize the small intestine epithelial cells
- There are changes in gene expression from when the bacteria is in the water and when it is in the host
- The bacteria reproduces via the asexual process binary fission
HOST INFORMATION
- Transmitted via fecal oral route
- Common in the developing world
- Poor sanitary condistions, type O blood, and eating raw or undercooked shellfish increases risk of getting cholera
- There are antibiotics but the bacteria are developing reistance to these treatments
- There is also a vaccine available, but it is not always effective
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GEOGRAPHICAL DISTRIBUTION
Cholera occurs in low-income countries generally. It is common in Africa and Asia.
SOURCES
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3842031/
http://www.iucngisd.org/gisd/species.php?sc=561
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cholera/symptoms-causes/syc-20355287
https://www.cdc.gov/cholera/infection-sources.html