GENEVA

Polish health authorities have confirmed a rare case of cholera in an elderly woman from Stargard, raising concerns about possible local transmission, TVP World reported on Sunday.

Chief Sanitary Inspector Paweł Grzesiowski said the woman, who had not traveled outside the country, was diagnosed with cholera after suffering from severe diarrhea. The diagnosis was confirmed by two separate tests.

"This case appears to have been acquired locally," Grzesiowski said, adding that cholera cases in Poland typically involve travelers returning from abroad. Due to the contagious nature and severity of the illness, the patient was transferred to a specialized infectious diseases hospital in Szczecin.

More than 20 individuals who had contact with the patient have been placed under quarantine, as a precautionary measure to prevent further spread.

Cholera is caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae and is primarily transmitted through contaminated water. It can cause rapid dehydration and death if left untreated. Treatment includes antibiotics and intensive rehydration therapy.

The case has prompted health authorities to investigate the potential source of contamination and evaluate the risk of further infections in the area.