What should you know about cholera control?

Cholera spreads when food or water is contaminated with the bacterium that causes the infection. Control therefore has two linked aims: prevent further exposure and replace fluid and salts lost through diarrhoea or vomiting. Use treated or sealed drinking water, wash hands with soap after using the toilet and before preparing food, and cook food thoroughly. Keep prepared food covered, and clean surfaces that may have been contaminated. A person with suspected cholera should avoid preparing food for others until a clinician gives advice.

Rehydration is the central treatment. Oral rehydration solution can replace water and electrolytes when the person is alert and able to drink. Severe dehydration may require IV Fluid Therapy in a medical setting. Antibiotics may be considered by a clinician for some cases, but they do not replace fluids.

Start approved oral rehydration solution as soon as possible if watery diarrhoea begins, following the packet directions and using safe water. Continue small, frequent sips, even if vomiting occurs, and keep breastfeeding or offering suitable food when tolerated. Do not mix the solution with extra sugar or salt, and do not rely on sports drinks as a substitute. Separate towels and utensils where feasible, clean the toilet and washroom carefully, and arrange medical advice promptly. A clinician can assess hydration, test when appropriate, and advise on treatment and local public-health measures.

Seek urgent medical care for very watery diarrhoea, repeated vomiting, marked thirst, a dry mouth, little or no urine, dizziness, unusual sleepiness, confusion, weakness, sunken eyes, or cold hands and feet. These can signal significant dehydration, which can worsen quickly. Infants, older adults, pregnant people, and anyone with a long-term illness need a low threshold for assessment. Call emergency services if the person collapses, cannot drink, is difficult to wake, or has breathing problems.

Ask which rehydration product and amount are suitable, whether testing is needed, how to protect household members, and which warning signs should take you straight to hospital.