New study shows Haitian cholera strain has evolved
New study shows Haitian cholera strain has evolved
By Trenton Daniel, Associated Press
Updated 1h 17m ago
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP) — The cholera strain in Haiti is evolving, researchers reported Thursday, a sign that it may be taking deeper root in the nation less than two years after it appeared and killed thousands of people.
The study released by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that the bacterium is changing as survivors acquire at least some immunity to the original bug, which apparently was imported from Nepal.
Cholera experts also say such a development is expected and has happened in cholera epidemics around the world.
"This suggests that the ongoing epidemic in Haiti might be entering its next phase, since we see these shifts where cholera is endemic," said Dr. Edward T. Ryan, an infectious disease specialist with Massachusetts General Hospital who was not involved with the study.
More:
http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/story/2012-05-04/Haiti-cholera-strain-evolve/54748538/1