Cholera

What is cholera?

Cholera is a bacterial infection caused by Vibrio cholerae. It spreads through contaminated food and water and can cause acute diarrhoeal illness. In severe cases, cholera can lead to rapid dehydration and requires urgent medical attention.

Where is cholera found?

Cholera occurs in parts of:

• Africa
• South and Southeast Asia
• The Middle East
• Central and South America
• Areas affected by poor sanitation, natural disasters, or humanitarian crises

How is cholera spread?

Cholera is spread by consuming food or water contaminated with the bacteria. Common sources include:

• Untreated drinking water
• Ice made from unsafe water
• Raw or undercooked seafood
• Unwashed fruit and vegetables
• Food prepared in poor hygienic conditions

Symptoms

Symptoms typically develop between 12 hours and 5 days after exposure. They may include:

• Sudden, profuse watery diarrhoea
• Vomiting
• Muscle cramps
• Rapid dehydration
• Intense thirst
• Weakness
• Dizziness

Some people infected with cholera may have mild symptoms or no symptoms at all.

Prevention

The risk of cholera can be reduced by:

• Drinking bottled, boiled, or appropriately treated water.
• Avoiding ice unless it has been made from safe water.
• Washing hands regularly with soap and clean water.
• Eating food that has been thoroughly cooked and served hot.
• Avoiding raw or undercooked seafood.
• Peeling fruit yourself before eating.
• Avoiding unpasteurised dairy products.

Cholera vaccine

The cholera vaccine available in the UK is an oral (drinkable) vaccine that helps protect against cholera. It is recommended for travellers who may be at increased risk of exposure based on their destination, length of stay, and planned activities.

How is the vaccine given?

• The vaccine is taken by mouth rather than by injection.
• For adults and children aged 6 years and over, the primary course consists of 2 doses, taken at least 1 week apart.
• For children aged 2 to under 6 years, the primary course consists of 3 doses, each taken at least 1 week apart.
• The final dose should be completed at least 1 week before travel to allow time for protection to develop.

Who can receive the vaccine?

The oral cholera vaccine can be given to adults and children aged 2 years and over. During your travel health consultation, our pharmacist will assess your destination, itinerary, and individual risk factors to determine whether the vaccine is appropriate for you.

Who should consider vaccination?

Vaccination may be appropriate for travellers who:

• Are visiting areas experiencing a cholera outbreak.
• Will be staying in high-risk areas for extended periods.
• Are backpacking, camping, or travelling in remote locations.
• Are undertaking humanitarian or healthcare work.
• May have limited access to clean water and sanitation.

A travel health consultation can help determine whether the cholera vaccine is appropriate for your trip.