An Epidemiological Investigation of Cholera Outbreak in an NGO Residential School for differently abled children and adolescents of urban Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India: A Cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Background: Cholera is a significant public health issue in developing nations like India due to factors such as migration, poor sanitation, overcrowding, and lack of disease awareness. An increase in diarrhea and dehydration cases at an NGO Residential School for differently abled children and adolescents of urban Indore, M.P., India, required immediate investigation to prevent a potential outbreak.

Objectives: 1. To investigate an outbreak of Cholera and Dehydration cases at an NGO Residential School for differently abled children and adolescents of urban Indore, M.P., India.

1. To determine the etiological agents, evaluate the outbreak's severity, and recommend suitable control strategies.

Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study began with a proposed case definition, followed by line-listing, and collection of stool, food, and water samples. Patients with symptoms of diarrhea or vomiting were promptly referred and treated. A comprehensive epidemiological report with recommendations and an action plan was submitted to the district health authorities.

Results: Out of 94 suspected cases, 31 tested positive for cholera. Most affected individuals (72.34%) were aged 10–19 years, with an equal male-to-female ratio. The case fatality rate was 4.3%, while attack rate was 32.98%. Contaminated drinking water and poor hygiene were identified as the main causes of the outbreak.

Conclusion: Contaminated water and poor hygiene were identified as key factors responsible for cholera outbreak. Immediate actions, including water treatment and hygiene education, helped control the outbreak. Periodic supervision by the concerned authorities was suggested to prevent future outbreaks.