Causes and Treatments of Cholera

10. What is the Risk of Contracting Cholera in the US?

In the 1800s, cholera was widespread, even in America. Thankfully, though, modern sewer systems and sewage treatment plants have eliminated this risk. It is still possible for Americans to get cholera from undercooked or raw shellfish caught in other places, but this is rare. Americans can also bring back the bacterium after visiting places where cholera is epidemic, such as certain parts of Asia, Latin America, and Africa. This can be prevented by proper food care and hand-washing, however.

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