Cholera risk in Cali

CHOLERA PREVENTION GUIDE - CALI RISK SCORE 57/100 Cholera is a bacterial infection spread through contaminated water and food, causing severe diarrhea and dehydration that can become life-threatening without treatment. WHY CALI IS AT RISK Cali faces elevated cholera risk due to its tropical climate, dense population in certain districts, aging water infrastructure in some areas, informal street food vending, heavy rainfall causing sewage overflow during wet seasons, and proximity to the Cauca River where contamination can occur. The 57/100 score reflects moderate but real concern, especially in lower-income neighborhoods with limited sanitation access. 5 ACTIONABLE PREVENTION STEPS 1. TREAT YOUR WATER. Boil drinking water for at least one full minute, especially during rainy season when contamination risk spikes. Use chlorine purification tablets or certified filters as backup. Never drink from unverified street sources. 2. CHOOSE FOOD CAREFULLY. Eat only fully cooked, hot food from street vendors. Avoid raw salads, unpeeled fruits, and unrefrigerated items. Stick to packaged or peeled produce you prepare yourself. Seafood from local markets needs extra caution since shellfish can harbor cholera bacteria. 3. WASH HANDS RELIGIOUSLY. Use soap and clean water before eating, after using the bathroom, and after handling waste. Carry hand sanitizer for situations without running water. This single habit cuts transmission dramatically. 4. MANAGE HOUSEHOLD WASTE PROPERLY. Keep sewage away from any water sources. If you notice broken pipes or standing contaminated water near your home, report it to EMCALI immediately. Do not let children play near drainage channels during floods. 5. KNOW THE WARNING SIGNS. Watery diarrhea appearing within hours of exposure means seek oral rehydration immediately using clean water with salt and sugar while getting to a clinic. Cali's public health network can confirm cases fast. Early treatment is nearly always effective.