What should you know about cholera simple definition?

Cholera occurs when a person swallows certain Vibrio bacteria, commonly through food or water contaminated with faecal matter. The bacteria produce a toxin that draws water and salts into the intestine. This can lead to large-volume watery stools, sometimes with vomiting. Not everyone exposed becomes visibly ill, but a person with symptoms can lose fluids quickly. Signs of dehydration include intense thirst, dry lips or tongue, dizziness, weakness, reduced urine, and increasing drowsiness. The symptom page on [Diarrhoea](/symptoms/diarrhoea/) explains the broader symptom and its warning signs.

Use a correctly mixed oral rehydration solution and sip it often. Keep breastfeeding and resume light foods as tolerated. Avoid preparing food for other people while unwell, wash hands carefully after using the toilet, and clean potentially contaminated surfaces. Arrange medical assessment for suspected cholera so hydration can be checked and treatment considered. [Oral Rehydration Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/oral-rehydration-therapy/) replaces water and salts by mouth; [IV Fluid Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/iv-fluid-therapy/) may be needed when dehydration is severe or drinking is not possible.

Go to urgent care if you cannot keep fluids down, feel faint or confused, pass very little urine, become unusually sleepy, or have ongoing watery stools with marked weakness. Babies, children, older adults, pregnant people, and those with significant medical conditions need a lower threshold for prompt assessment. Do not wait for a test result if dehydration symptoms are developing.

What findings make cholera more likely in my situation? How should I prepare and take oral rehydration solution? Should I be tested or treated? What symptoms would mean I need hospital-based fluid replacement?