Which organism causes cholera?

Vibrio cholerae lives in the intestine after it is swallowed, usually through contaminated water or food. Its toxin disrupts the normal movement of salt and water across the bowel, so the body can lose fluid and electrolytes quickly. The illness may begin with sudden, painless watery stools and vomiting. Not every watery diarrhoea illness is cholera, so testing and clinical assessment may be needed, especially after travel or exposure in an affected area.

Start an approved oral rehydration solution if you can drink, taking frequent small sips and following the product instructions. Continue breastfeeding or usual feeding when possible, and avoid preparing food for other people while diarrhoea continues. A clinician may arrange stool testing and decide whether an antibiotic is appropriate; do not self-start leftover antibiotics. Severe dehydration may require [IV Fluid Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/iv-fluid-therapy/). Learn more about [Oral Rehydration Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/oral-rehydration-therapy/).

Seek urgent medical care for repeated watery stools, ongoing vomiting, faintness, confusion, very little urine, a dry mouth, sunken eyes, cold hands or feet, or unusual sleepiness. Infants, older adults, pregnant people, and anyone with a serious long-term illness can become dehydrated quickly. A person with suspected cholera should be assessed promptly even if they can still drink. Read more about [Diarrhoea](/symptoms/diarrhoea/).

Ask whether your symptoms and recent food, water, or travel exposure warrant a stool test; how much rehydration solution to take; which signs mean dehydration is worsening; and whether anyone in your household needs testing or preventive advice.