Low detection ofVibrio choleraecarriage in healthcare workers returning to 12 Latin American countries from Haiti

Abstract

SUMMARYThis investigation was undertaken to characterize the prevalence of intestinalVibrio choleraein healthcare workers (HCWs) returning from Haiti due to the ongoing cholera epidemic. Eight hundred and fifty asymptomatic HCWs of the Cuban Medical Brigade, who planned to leave Haiti, were studied by laboratory screening of stool culture forV. cholerae. A very low percentage (0·23%) of toxigenicV. choleraeserogroup O1, serotype Ogawa was found. To the best of our knowledge, this study represents the largest reported screening study forV. choleraeinfection in asymptomatic HCWs returning from a cholera-affected country. Cholera transmission to health personnel highlights a possible risk of transmitting cholera during mobilization of the population for emergency response. Aid workers are encouraged to take precautions to reduce their risk for acquiring cholera and special care should be taken by consuming safe water and food and practising regular hand washing.