Cholera Causative Agent and Transmission

Steps:

• Identify the pathogen: Cholera is caused by Vibrio cholerae, a bacterium.
• Recall transmission: It spreads through fecal-oral route, primarily via water contaminated with infected feces.
• Eliminate viral options: Cholera is bacterial, not viral.
• Confirm medium: Not blood; it's waterborne, especially in areas with poor sanitation.

Why B is correct:

• Vibrio cholerae is a bacterium that produces toxins in the intestines, leading to severe diarrhea; per WHO definitions, it's transmitted orally through contaminated water sources like drinking or bathing water.

Why the others are wrong:

• A: Cholera isn't bloodborne; blood transmission applies to diseases like HIV or hepatitis.
• C: Cholera is caused by bacteria, not viruses; viruses cause diseases like norovirus gastroenteritis.
• D: Incorrect pathogen; no virus causes cholera, though some viruses spread via water.

Final answer: B