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

PRACTICE QUESTION Q.  The prequalification of Euvichol-S by WHO represents a significant advancement in cholera prevention and control efforts. Continued efforts in vaccination, hygiene promotion, and water sanitation are essential in the fight against cholera and its devastating impacts on communities globally. Comment. (250 Words)