What is cholera primarily caused by?

Cholera is primarily caused by the ingestion of contaminated water or food. The disease is caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, which is typically present in water sources that have been contaminated with fecal matter. When individuals consume water or food that contains the bacteria, the organism colonizes the intestines and produces a toxin that leads to severe diarrhea and dehydration.

This transmission route is particularly significant in areas with poor sanitation and inadequate access to clean drinking water. The ability of the bacteria to thrive in environments where sanitation is lacking emphasizes the importance of hygiene and public health interventions in controlling cholera outbreaks.

Other options do not accurately reflect the primary cause of cholera. Contaminated air is not a route for cholera transmission, and while bacterial infections can arise from livestock, they are not related to cholera specifically. Genetic predisposition does not play a role in susceptibility to cholera, as the disease is primarily an infectious condition driven by environmental factors.