Which of the following symptoms is indicative of cholera?

The presence of loose, watery stools is characteristic of cholera, a severe diarrheal illness caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. In cholera, the pathogen leads to a rapid loss of fluids and electrolytes due to profuse diarrhea. This type of diarrhea is often described as "rice-water" stools, which are pale, watery, and free of blood, emphasizing the loss of liquid rather than solid material. The rapid loss of fluids can lead to severe dehydration and requires immediate medical attention.

The other symptoms are not typically associated with cholera. Blood in the stool, severe stomach pain, and high fever may indicate other gastrointestinal infections or conditions rather than cholera specifically. Therefore, recognizing loose, watery stools as a hallmark symptom is crucial for proper diagnosis and prompt treatment of cholera. This understanding is a key component of Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI) protocols, which emphasize identifying the signs of severe dehydration and managing cholera effectively.