ABSTRACT

Dear Reader,

Cholera epidemics have wiped out clans, communities, and large chunks of populations whenever they have raged across the globe. Of the seven large epidemics over the last two hundred years, lasting from seven to twenty-four years, Bengal has bome the brunt of its four times. Cholera, caused by Vibirio cholerae bacteria, is characterized by mild to potentially fatal acute watery diarrhoea, Prompt rehydration therapy is the cornerstone of management, since the body's ability to absorb salts, water, stool, urine and sweat. Repeated attacks of diarrhoea are a major cause of malnutrition, stunted growth and low body weight.