Cholera Vaccination

Cholera is a bacterial infection of the small intestine that is often spread through contaminated water or food. Cholera results in vomiting and diarrhea, which leaves the patient at risk of electrolyte imbalance and dehydration. If not treated promptly, it can be fatal and causes up to 143,000 deaths a year. Infants, young children and the elderly are especially at risk.

What are the symptoms of cholera?

Around 75% of those who are exposed to the bacteria that cause cholera (Vibrio cholerae)have no symptoms or only a very mild illness. Travellers in good health will probably not become ill – but those who do will find symptoms emerge between 12 hours and five days after infection.

Sufferers will experience diarrhea, which may be accompanied by vomiting. In severe cases, this fluid loss will cause muscle cramps and extreme dehydration.

Which countries have a risk of cholera?

The risk of cholera is most common in countries with poor sanitation, inadequate hygiene and overcrowding. The risk is also elevated in the aftermath of natural disasters and in war zones. There is a particular prevalence of cholera in Africa, Asia and in Central and South America.

Am I at risk from cholera?

If you are a humanitarian worker or a healthcare professional and you will be working in disaster zones, you should be vaccinated against cholera. Anyone who will be working in a slum or refugee camp should likewise be protected from cholera.

Prevention of cholera

Apart from getting a cholera vaccination, there are a few good practices that will help you to avoid ingesting the bacteria that causes cholera.

Practise good hygiene

Wash your hands after using the toilet and before you eat or cook. Sanitizing gel can be useful for a clean-up if there is no water for handwashing.

Clean dishes, cutlery, cups glasses and utensils with an alcohol wipe before you use them.

Use safe water sources

If the local tap water is not considered safe for drinking, think about how you will source safe drinking water. These are some sources of safe water:

• Bottled water is generally safe the world over, as are all drinks in factory-sealed bottles – but look out for sneaky refills and always check the cap is sealed. In some parts of Africa filtered water is sold in bags, and this can be a good option, but take local advice. Plastic water bottles are a major cause of littering in some countries and good travellers should avoid contributing to this.

Purifying water is particularly attractive if you are travelling to a remote area or if you know the local infrastructure is not working well.

For more tips, see the Government of Canada’s advice on food and water safety.