SEM of Vibrio cholerae, an acute bacterial infection of the small intestine, characterized by severe diarrhea and vomiting, muscular cramps, dehydration and depletion of electrolytes. The disease is spread by water and food that have been contaminated by feces of persons previously infected. The symptoms are caused by toxic substances produced by the infecting organism. The profuse, watery diarrhea, as much as a liter an hour, depletes the body of fluids and minerals. Complications include circulatory collapse, destruction of kidney tissue, and metabolic acidosis. Treatment includes antibiotics to destroy the infecting bacteria and restoration of fluids and electrolytes by injection. Magnification unknown.