Pan American Health Organization: Epidemiological update: Cholera, August 21, 2013
CUBA
Between late July and August 2013, 12 cases of cholera associated with a history of travel to Cuba were confirmed, as follow:
Italy: 3 confirmed cases
Venezuela: 2 confirmed cases
Chile: 2 confirmed cases
Germany: 2 confirmed cases
Netherlands: 1 confirmed case
Spain: 2 confirmed cases
These cases included 8 men and 4 women with an age range of 30-74 years (median age of 53).
The Institute of Tropical Medicine “Pedro Kouri” confirmed the detection of V. cholerae Ogawa serogroup O1 in all of the cases. They have all since recovered and no deaths have been recorded.
Per the information received, Cuba continues to develop and implement cholera prevention and control plans, to strengthen awareness of preventive measures by the public, to control food preparations sites, and carry out epidemiological surveillance of acute diarrheal diseases.
Public health awareness campaigns were intensified during the summer season; particularly those related to hand washing, chlorinated water intake, safe food preparation, washing of fruits and vegetables, and choose processed foods.
Comments: Cholera vaccine is available in India in the form of an oral dose, and two doses at a gap of 15 days can protect you for at least 2 years against this deadly disease. TravelSafe clinic urges all travelers to Cuba and surrounding countries to take this (& other travel) vaccine to enjoy your holiday, and avoid serious illnesses.
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