Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala): Two additional cases of cholera have been reported in the state capital, bringing the total confirmed cases in the city to three. These new cases were identified at a private institution.

Recently, a ten-year-old boy from Neyyattinkara tested positive for cholera, who is a resident of the Special School Hostel. The state has recorded a total of four cholera cases in July so far. Anu (26), another resident of the hostel, died last Friday with symptoms resembling cholera.

In the past six months, Kerala has recorded nine cases of cholera. Currently, 13 people, including those at the medical college, are receiving treatment for diarrhoea. The state's last cholera-related death occurred in 2017.

Following the confirmation of cholera at a private care facility, the health department has heightened preventive measures. 

Samples, including water samples, have been sent for testing to identify the source of the outbreak. The health department has also prepared an isolation ward at Iranimuttam and ensured expert care in case of a rise in patient numbers.

Poor sanitation and contaminated water sources are attributed to this surge. While cholera is no longer a major public health concern, prompt precautions are essential. These include ensuring treated or boiled drinking water, practicing hand hygiene, avoiding undercooked food, proper waste disposal, and seeking immediate medical attention for symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, or dehydration.