An analysis on Recent Cholera Epidemic in I.R.IRAN

Cholera is a disease with mild to severe diarrhea that causes high mortality if not promptly diagnosed. Since cholera is an endemic and epidemic disease in some areas of Asia including I.R.IRAN, the aim of this study is an analysis on the recent epidemic (Summer 2005) in I.R.IRAN. In this review study, cholera epidemic in I.R.IRAN and factors affecting its spread are analyzied and methods for its control and prevention are provided. Bacterial culture and serotyping had been performed in all patients. Disease status in I.R.IRAN and other countries in last 10 years have been compared. Results show that cholera was epidemic in I.R.IRAN in summer of 2005. 1150 persons were infected, of which 11 died. This outbreak frightened millions of people. Everybody refused to use fruits and vegetables with the slightest warning from health authorities. In addition, national economy was damaged. Findings infer that although health authorities acted hurriedly leading to a lot of concern and financial loss, the intelligent control system in the Ministry of Health could control the first phase of the epidemic and prevent more impact.