Often displaced populations are forced to gather in confined spaces, further enabling the spread of epidemics, such as cholera, malaria and dengue fever. In Central America, which was hit by Hurricane Mitch in 1998, cholera was already epidemic. Another problem is the number of injured people who need to be treated. According to the World Health Organisation, the presence of dead bodies is not a major factor in the spread of communicable diseases. The spread of cholera is one of the main dangers following a natural disaster.
Cholera is an acute infection of the gut which causes chronic diarrhoea and vomiting.
This can lead to severe dehydration and, in some extreme cases, death. Cholera is spread by contaminated water and food. Sudden outbreaks, such as those which follow a disaster, are usually caused by a contaminated water supply. Cholera can be effectively treated with oral rehydration salts and antibiotics. Containing a cholera outbreak involves ensuring there are proper sanitation methods for disposing of sewage, an adequate drinking water supply and good food hygiene.