Is cholera a water-borne disease?

Water becomes unsafe when stool from an infected person reaches a drinking supply and treatment or sanitation does not remove the bacteria. Food can also become contaminated during washing, cooking, serving, or handling. Once swallowed, Vibrio cholerae can release a toxin in the small intestine, causing the bowel to move large amounts of water and salts into the stool. The resulting diarrhoea may be extremely watery and can cause dehydration faster than many people expect.

Drink water that is sealed, boiled, or treated according to local public-health advice. Use the same standard for ice, tooth brushing, medicines, and food preparation. Keep raw and cooked foods separate, wash hands with soap, and clean toilets and high-touch surfaces safely. At the first sign of watery diarrhoea, use [Oral Rehydration Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/oral-rehydration-therapy/) as directed and continue offering small, frequent sips.

Seek urgent care if diarrhoea is frequent, vomiting continues, drinking is difficult, or there is fainting, confusion, severe weakness, very little urine, or unusual drowsiness. Do not wait for thirst alone: early fluid loss may be substantial before it feels obvious. A health professional can assess dehydration and provide [IV Fluid Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/iv-fluid-therapy/) when oral fluids are not enough. General information about [Diarrhoea](/symptoms/diarrhoea/) may also help you describe symptoms.

Ask how to make water safe in your setting, whether a stool sample is needed, how to monitor urine and alertness, how long to avoid preparing food for others, and whether household contacts need specific instructions.