What should you know about cholera skin infection?

Cholera follows swallowing Vibrio cholerae bacteria, usually in contaminated food or water. The bacteria act in the intestine, where they can trigger sudden watery stools and vomiting. The illness does not generally enter through a cut or create a typical skin infection. Dry skin, a dry mouth, sunken eyes, or less elastic skin may appear when fluid loss becomes significant. In contrast, pain, warmth, swelling, pus, or spreading redness suggests a separate skin problem that needs its own assessment. Read about the main bowel symptom in [Diarrhoea](/symptoms/diarrhoea/).

If watery diarrhoea is present, start correctly prepared oral rehydration solution and take frequent small sips. Continue breastfeeding and eat small amounts when able. Keep hands, toilets, laundry, and food-preparation areas clean; avoid preparing meals for others while ill. Do not put antibiotic or steroid creams on unexplained skin changes without advice. A healthcare professional may recommend [Oral Rehydration Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/oral-rehydration-therapy/) or, for severe dehydration or inability to drink, [IV Fluid Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/iv-fluid-therapy/).

Get urgent help for fainting, confusion, inability to drink, repeated vomiting, minimal urine, severe weakness, or worsening drowsiness. Arrange prompt review for a painful or rapidly spreading skin area, fever with a skin wound, or drainage, particularly if diarrhoea is occurring too. Children, older adults, pregnant people, and those with serious chronic illness may deteriorate faster and should be assessed early.

Could the skin finding be separate from the diarrhoeal illness? What signs show that dehydration is becoming serious? Which fluid plan is appropriate? Does the skin area need a swab, dressing, or different treatment?