What should you know about cholera and fever?

Cholera is caused by bacteria that release toxins in the intestine, drawing water into the bowel. The resulting diarrhoea can be profuse and may lead to thirst, dry mouth, weakness, dizziness or very little urine. Fever is not required for cholera and can also come from another infection, so its presence does not confirm the diagnosis. A clinician considers the pattern of stool, exposure to unsafe water or food, travel, and signs of dehydration.

Read more about [Diarrhoea](/symptoms/diarrhoea/) and how it may affect fluid balance.

Start an oral rehydration solution as directed on its packaging, taking frequent small sips. Continue breastfeeding and offer suitable fluids to children while arranging medical advice. Avoid preparing a stronger or weaker mixture, and do not rely on very sugary drinks alone. A clinician may prescribe treatment for suspected cholera and may recommend [Oral Rehydration Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/oral-rehydration-therapy/) or [IV Fluid Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/iv-fluid-therapy/) when drinking is not enough. Wash hands carefully and avoid preparing food for others while diarrhoea continues.

Seek urgent medical care for repeated watery stools with marked thirst, faintness, confusion, cold hands or feet, inability to drink, persistent vomiting, or very little urine. A high fever, blood in the stool, severe abdominal pain, or worsening weakness also needs prompt assessment. Babies, older adults, pregnant people and anyone with a serious long-term condition can dehydrate quickly and should be assessed early.

Ask whether testing is needed, how much rehydration solution to take, which warning signs require an emergency visit, and whether household contacts need advice about hygiene or monitoring.