What to know about cholera vaccine in pregnancy

Pregnancy can make dehydration from diarrhoeal illness more concerning for both the pregnant person and the pregnancy. Whether vaccination is considered depends on the likelihood of exposure and the specific product, along with available alternatives. Do not make a decision from a general rule or a previous vaccine record.

The vaccine is preventive and does not treat cholera. Safe water, careful food choices, and hand hygiene remain central. Tell the clinician if you are breastfeeding, have allergies, take medicines, or have an immune condition.

Speak with your obstetric or primary-care team and a travel-health clinician before departure. Share your gestational stage, destination, travel conditions, planned departure, vaccine history, and any pregnancy complications. They can explain whether vaccination is appropriate and how to follow the product instructions.

Choose sealed or treated water, eat food that is well cooked and hot, and avoid raw food washed in uncertain water. Carry a plan for oral rehydration and know how to reach medical care at your destination.

Contact urgent medical care for watery diarrhoea, repeated vomiting, dizziness, faintness, confusion, severe weakness, or reduced urine during pregnancy. Dehydration may progress quickly. Start oral rehydration if you can drink safely while arranging help; severe cases may need IV fluid therapy.

Ask how your pregnancy and destination affect the recommendation, which product is being considered, what symptoms need same-day assessment, and which hydration plan is suitable if diarrhoea occurs.