Today with Claire Byrne Tropical diseases
Aug 12, 2025
Dr. Graeme Fry, Medical Director of the Tropical Medical Bureau, dives into the resurgence of tropical diseases like cholera, leprosy, Zika, malaria, and dengue fever post-COVID-19. He highlights the low cholera risk in Ireland due to clean water, while discussing the disease's transmission through shellfish. The episode also clarifies leprosy types and emphasizes the importance of fluid replacement in cholera care. Additionally, Fry covers the impacts of global travel on tropical disease prevalence and the caution needed after heavy rains.
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How Cholera Enters The Body
- Cholera is usually acquired by drinking heavily contaminated water and can be asymptomatic in many carriers.
- Gastric acid often protects against infection, so reduced stomach acid raises risk.
Prevent Cholera With Hygiene And Clean Water
- Stick to normal personal hygiene like hand washing to prevent local transmission from an infected person.
- Avoid drinking or using visibly dirty brown water which typically carries cholera and other pathogens.
Stomach Acid Is A Key Defense
- A large infectious dose of cholera is often needed because stomach acid kills many bacteria.
- People with reduced stomach acid or after gastric surgery face higher susceptibility.