What should you know about cholera pathogen?

Cholera bacteria are swallowed in contaminated water or food. In the small intestine, some strains produce a toxin that changes how intestinal cells handle water and salts. This can create profuse watery diarrhoea and vomiting. The body may lose fluid faster than a person can drink, leading to thirst, dry mouth, weakness, dizziness, reduced urine or confusion.

The word pathogen means an organism capable of causing disease; it does not identify the severity of a particular episode. Other infections can cause similar bowel symptoms, so a clinician may use the history, examination and testing when appropriate.

Use a commercially prepared oral rehydration solution according to its instructions and take small sips often. Continue breastfeeding and normal foods if tolerated. Use safe water for drinking, cooking and handwashing, and clean toilet surfaces carefully. Keep soiled laundry separate and avoid preparing meals for other people until well.

If drinking cannot keep up with losses, a medical team may give [IV Fluid Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/iv-fluid-therapy/). See [Oral Rehydration Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/oral-rehydration-therapy/) for the role of replacement fluids.

Arrange urgent assessment for ongoing watery diarrhoea, repeated vomiting, faintness, confusion, severe weakness, minimal urine or an inability to swallow fluids. Seek emergency help if someone collapses or is difficult to wake. Use the [Diarrhoea](/symptoms/diarrhoea/) guide alongside advice from a clinician.

Ask whether the illness needs a stool test, how to judge hydration, whether treatment beyond fluids is indicated, and how to reduce spread at home. Explain the timing of symptoms, suspected exposure, vomiting, urine output and any medical conditions or medicines.