What should you know about cholera and typhoid vaccine?

Cholera is an intestinal infection that can cause sudden watery diarrhoea and rapid dehydration. Typhoid is a different bacterial infection, usually associated with prolonged fever and systemic symptoms. A vaccine made for typhoid does not prevent cholera, and a cholera vaccine does not prevent typhoid. Protection depends on the product, age, health history and timing, so a travel or vaccination clinician should check which vaccine is appropriate. Neither vaccine covers every cause of diarrhoea.

Learn what to watch for in [Diarrhoea](/symptoms/diarrhoea/).

Discuss vaccination before travel or other exposure with a qualified clinician, sharing your destination, departure timing, previous vaccines, allergies, pregnancy status and medical conditions. Follow the product schedule and keep using treated water, sealed drinks, thoroughly cooked food and careful handwashing. If diarrhoea develops, start correctly prepared oral rehydration solution and seek advice. [Oral Rehydration Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/oral-rehydration-therapy/) replaces lost fluid and salts; severe dehydration may require [IV Fluid Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/iv-fluid-therapy/).

Seek urgent care for repeated watery stools, inability to drink, persistent vomiting, faintness, confusion, very little urine, severe weakness or cold extremities. A vaccine does not make these symptoms safe to watch at home. High fever, severe abdominal pain or blood in stool also needs prompt assessment because another infection may be involved.

Ask which infection your vaccine targets, when protection is expected, whether another dose is needed, how pregnancy or immune conditions affect the choice, and what food and water precautions remain necessary.