Common symptoms of cholera

Cholera is an intestinal infection that can cause the body to lose fluid and salts quickly through frequent watery stools and vomiting. A person may develop a dry mouth, intense thirst, weakness, dizziness, reduced urination, sunken eyes, or cool skin. Severe dehydration can affect alertness and circulation. Not every watery diarrhoea illness is cholera, but suspected cholera needs prompt assessment, particularly after exposure to unsafe water or contaminated food.

Start oral rehydration therapy while arranging urgent medical advice, taking small, frequent sips if vomiting is present. Continue breastfeeding an infant. Avoid preparing food for other people, wash hands carefully, and use safe water. A clinician may test the illness and decide whether monitored treatment or IV fluid therapy is needed. Do not delay care while waiting for diarrhoea to stop.

Get urgent medical help for repeated watery stools, persistent vomiting, faintness, confusion, very little urine, marked weakness, or inability to drink. Infants, older adults, pregnant people, and anyone with a long-term illness can become dehydrated quickly. Emergency care is needed if the person is difficult to wake, collapses, or has severe breathing or circulation problems.

Ask how to mix and use oral rehydration solution safely, which dehydration signs to watch for, whether testing is needed, and how to protect household members from contaminated water or food.