Identification of Vibrio Species and Predominant Cholera-Causing Serotypes at Hospital Semporna

Abstract

Semporna, Sabah has reported many cholera outbreaks in recent years, posing a significant threat to the public’s health. Despite that, the current knowledge regarding cholera in Semporna is limited, as there is not enough data on the incidence and prevalence of the disease. This study aimed to identify the Vibrio species isolated from suspected cholera cases, determine the predominant Vibrio cholerae serotypes, and describe the demographic characteristics regarding age, gender, and nationality of confirmed cholera cases at Hospital Semporna in 2023. A retrospective descriptive observational study was conducted using laboratory records of patients with suspected cholera between January and December 2023. Data were gathered, focusing on patient demographics and cholera positivity. A total of 286 suspected cholera cases were reviewed, of which 33 were confirmed as V. cholerae O1, with no fatalities reported. More than half (63.6%, 21/33) of the confirmed cases occurred in children aged below 10 years. Males accounted for 54.5% (18/33) of the cases, while non-Malaysians represented 63.6% (21/33). All 33 cases were caused by the V. cholerae O1 Ogawa, whereas the Inaba, Hikojima, and O139 serotypes were not detected. In conclusion, V. cholerae O1 Ogawa was the predominant serotype responsible for cholera cases in Hospital Semporna during the study period. Given its susceptibility to cholera outbreaks, the results make it even clearer that ongoing surveillance, targeted public health interventions, and preventive measures are needed to lower the risk of future outbreaks and keep the local population safe.