Cholera Epidemics of the Past Offer New Insights Into an Old Enemy.

ABSTRACT: Background:Although cholera is considered the quintessential long-cycle waterborne disease, studies have emphasized the existence of short-cycle (food, household) transmission. We investigated singular Danish cholera epidemics (in 1853) to elucidate epidemiological parameters and modes of spread. Methods:Using time series data from cities with different water systems, we estimated the intrinsic transmissibility (R0). Accessing cause-specific mortality data, we studied clinical severity and age-specific impact. From physicians' narratives we established transmission chains and estimated serial intervals. Results:Epidemics were seeded by travelers from cholera-affected cities; initial transmission chains involving household members and caretakers ensued. Cholera killed 3.4%-8.9% of the popul

SUBMITTER: Phelps M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5853221 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature