What is cholera?

Vibrio cholerae is a bacterium that can be swallowed in contaminated water or food. It disrupts the intestine's handling of water and salts, producing watery stool and sometimes vomiting. The illness may become serious because fluid leaves the body quickly. [Diarrhoea] can have many other causes, so a diagnosis cannot be made from one symptom alone. A clinician considers the pattern of illness and possible exposure, and may request a stool test.

Transmission is reduced by safe water, thorough handwashing, hygienic toilet use and careful food preparation. Anyone with suspected cholera should follow local public-health advice, especially when other people may have shared the same water or food.

Begin oral rehydration as soon as watery diarrhoea starts, using a correctly prepared product and safe water. [Oral Rehydration Therapy] replaces both fluid and salts. Continue taking small sips and seek medical advice promptly. Keep drinking water separate from untreated household supplies, wash hands after toileting, and avoid preparing food for others while unwell. Treatment may include prescribed medicine or monitoring, depending on the severity and the person's health.

Get urgent help for repeated watery stools with dizziness, fainting, confusion, severe thirst, a dry mouth, little urine, cold or clammy skin, or inability to drink. Infants, older adults and people with chronic conditions may need assessment early because dehydration can progress quickly. [IV Fluid Therapy] can replace fluid when oral rehydration is not possible or is insufficient. Emergency services are needed for collapse or reduced consciousness.

Ask whether testing is needed, how to prepare rehydration fluid, how to protect household members, which symptoms require hospital care and whether follow-up is needed after diarrhoea improves. Mention recent travel, untreated water, shared meals and existing medical conditions.