How can cholera cause death?

The infection can trigger sudden, high-volume watery diarrhoea and vomiting. The body then loses fluid and electrolytes faster than a person can replace them by drinking. As dehydration worsens, blood volume falls, blood pressure can drop and the kidneys may produce very little urine. Severe imbalance can affect the brain, muscles and heart.

The danger comes from fluid loss, not simply from having diarrhoea. Early rehydration can interrupt this process, which is why waiting to see whether symptoms settle can be unsafe when stools are profuse or drinking is difficult.

Start small, frequent sips of oral rehydration therapy if the person is awake and able to swallow, while arranging medical care. Continue offering safe fluids and follow the product instructions. Do not delay help while trying to manage severe dehydration at home. Clinicians may give IV fluid therapy, monitor electrolytes and assess whether additional treatment is needed.

Go to urgent care for fainting, confusion, extreme weakness, cold or clammy skin, very little or no urine, a fast heartbeat, repeated vomiting or inability to drink. A person with sudden watery diarrhoea should be assessed promptly even before these signs appear. Babies, older adults, pregnant people and those with kidney or heart conditions need a low threshold for urgent review.

Ask how to recognise dehydration, which rehydration solution to use and whether observation in a clinic is needed. Tell the clinician how often diarrhoea or vomiting is occurring, how much the person can drink and when they last passed urine.