What should you know about cholera definition and symptoms?

Cholera is caused by bacteria acquired through food or water contaminated with human waste. Some infected people have mild symptoms or none, while others develop abrupt, large-volume watery diarrhoea. The stool may look pale and cloudy, and vomiting can occur. Abdominal discomfort or cramps may be present, but high fever is not the defining feature.

The key complication is dehydration. Thirst, dry mouth, dizziness, weakness, reduced urination, sunken eyes and unusual sleepiness can appear as fluid loss increases. Symptoms can worsen quickly, so a person with suspected cholera should not wait for severe weakness before seeking advice.

Use an approved oral rehydration solution mixed exactly according to its instructions and safe water. Offer frequent small sips; if vomiting occurs, pause briefly and restart more slowly. Continue breastfeeding and suitable food when tolerated. Arrange prompt clinical assessment, particularly after travel, exposure to unsafe water, or contact with someone who has cholera. A clinician can decide whether testing, antibiotics or IV Fluid Therapy is appropriate. Wash hands with soap and avoid preparing food for others while unwell.

Seek urgent care for inability to drink, repeated vomiting, faintness, confusion, minimal urine, severe weakness, cold hands and feet, or rapidly worsening watery diarrhoea. Emergency help is needed if the person collapses, cannot be awakened, or develops severe breathing difficulty. Children, older adults, pregnant people and those with chronic illness should be assessed early because dehydration may be harder to recognise or tolerate.

Ask whether the symptoms fit cholera or another infection, how to prepare rehydration solution, whether testing is needed, and which changes require immediate hospital care.