Cholera is an infection of the digestive tract (or gut) caused by bacteria which can cause severe diarrhoea and dehydration.
It is most often seen in people who have travelled to developing countries.
Cholera is an infection caused by bacteria that produce toxins (poisons) found in faeces (poo).
You can become infected with cholera by ingesting the bacteria through your mouth. This can happen by:
Person to person spread of cholera is less common but can still happen when there is contact with tiny amounts of faeces or vomit from an ill person.
When travelling to developing countries, especially in Asia, the Pacific islands, Africa, the Middle East and Central and South America, you should pay particular attention to avoid:
Fruit that you peel yourself is usually safe. A helpful tip is to ‘cook it, boil it, peel it, or leave it’.
Use bottled water or disinfect water (by boiling, chemical treatment or purifiers) for drinking and brushing teeth.
Most people with cholera do not develop symptoms or have only mild illness. A small number of people will develop severe symptoms.
Symptoms of cholera can include:
If left untreated cholera can be life threatening and even cause death, especially in young children.
If you have or suspect you have cholera you should drink plenty of fluids such as water or oral rehydration drinks to avoid dehydration. Dehydration is especially dangerous for babies and the elderly.
Avoid anti-vomiting or anti-diarrhoeal medications unless these are prescribed or recommended by a doctor.
Antibiotics may be given to shorten the length of illness and lessen the severity of symptoms.
If you experience severe or prolonged symptoms you should visit a doctor.
A cholera vaccine is available for travellers to high risk areas overseas and can provide some protection, but is not recommended routinely.
See your doctor or travel medicine specialist at least 2 months prior to departure to see if any vaccinations or medications are recommended.
