NEW ORAL VACCINE FOR CHOLERA

Source: WHO

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Context

• The World Health Organization (WHO) has recently prequalified a new oral vaccine for cholera, known as Euvichol-S, developed by EuBiologics Co., Ltd., based in South Korea.
• This development marks a significant step in the fight against cholera, a deadly diarrheal disease.

Details

Euvichol-S

• Euvichol-S is an inactivated oral cholera vaccine and a simplified formulation of the existing vaccine Euvichol-Plus.
• The vaccine has demonstrated similar efficacy to other existing vaccines, but its simplified formulation allows for easier production scalability.
• This simplification is expected to enable a rapid increase in vaccine production capacity, crucial for addressing cholera outbreaks in affected communities.

Prequalification

• Euvichol-S joins the WHO prequalification list alongside Euvichol and Euvichol-Plus, all produced by EuBiologics Co., Ltd.
• WHO's prequalification facilitates the procurement and distribution of vaccines by international agencies and governments, ensuring quality and safety standards are met.
• The global health agency hopes that the prequalification of Euvichol-S will address the urgent need for increased vaccine supply in communities battling cholera outbreaks.

Cholera Outbreaks

• Cholera remains a significant global health concern, with a substantial number of cases reported annually.
• In 2022, 473,000 cholera cases were reported, double the number from 2021, with an estimated further increase in cases in 2023.
• Cholera outbreaks are currently affecting 23 countries, with severe impacts observed in regions such as Comoros, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Ethiopia.

What is Cholera?

• Cholera is an acute diarrheal disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It can lead to severe dehydration and death if left untreated.

Causes and Transmission:

• Bacterial Agent: Vibrio cholerae, particularly serotypes O1 and O139, are responsible for most cholera infections.
• Transmission Routes: Cholera spreads primarily through the fecal-oral route, commonly via contaminated water or food. It can also spread through person-to-person contact in densely populated or unsanitary conditions.

Symptoms:

• Incubation Period: Typically ranges from a few hours to five days after ingestion of contaminated food or water.
• Main Symptoms:
  • Profuse watery diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Dehydration
  • Muscle cramps
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Low blood pressure

Risk Factors:

• Poor Sanitation: Inadequate access to clean water, poor sewage disposal, and lack of hygiene contribute significantly to cholera outbreaks.
• Crowded Conditions: Overcrowded living spaces and refugee camps increase the risk of transmission.
• Malnutrition: Individuals with poor nutritional status are more vulnerable to severe cholera infections.

Prevention Measures:

• Hand Hygiene: Regular handwashing with soap and water is essential for preventing cholera transmission.
• Safe Water and Food: Drinking safe water and consuming thoroughly cooked food help reduce the risk of infection.
• Vaccination: Oral cholera vaccines, such as Euvichol-S, play a crucial role in preventing and controlling cholera outbreaks, particularly in endemic regions.

Treatment:

• Rehydration Therapy: Oral rehydration solution (ORS) or intravenous fluids are crucial to replace lost fluids and electrolytes.
• Antibiotic Therapy: Antibiotics such as doxycycline or azithromycin may be prescribed to reduce the duration and severity of symptoms.
• Zinc Supplements: Zinc supplementation can help reduce the duration and severity of diarrhea, particularly in children.

Conclusion

• Cholera remains a significant global health challenge, particularly in regions with poor sanitation and limited access to healthcare.
• Comprehensive prevention strategies, including vaccination, improved water and sanitation infrastructure, and health education, are essential for controlling cholera outbreaks and reducing its burden on affected communities.

Sources:

Financial Express