What to know about current cholera outbreaks

Cholera is an intestinal infection caused by contaminated food or water. It can lead to sudden, watery diarrhoea and vomiting, causing the body to lose water and salts. The danger comes mainly from dehydration, which may progress quickly, particularly in young children, older adults, and people already unwell.

An outbreak means transmission is occurring in a community or setting; it does not mean every episode of diarrhoea is cholera. Symptoms overlap with other infections, so local health advice and clinical assessment matter.

Drink treated, bottled, or boiled water when local authorities advise it, and use safe water for brushing teeth and preparing food. Wash hands with soap after using the toilet and before handling food. Eat food that is thoroughly cooked and served hot; avoid raw seafood and food washed with unsafe water. Use a toilet or designated sanitation facility and clean contaminated surfaces safely.

If watery diarrhoea or vomiting begins, start Oral Rehydration Therapy promptly according to the product instructions and continue small, frequent sips. Keep breastfeeding if applicable. Avoid preparing food for others while ill, and follow local public-health instructions about testing or treatment.

Seek urgent medical care for frequent watery diarrhoea, repeated vomiting, very little urine, intense thirst, dry mouth, dizziness, unusual sleepiness, confusion, or inability to drink. Severe dehydration may require IV Fluid Therapy. Children, pregnant people, older adults, and anyone with a chronic illness should seek advice early rather than waiting for symptoms to settle.

Ask whether your symptoms need testing, which rehydration product to use, and how to judge whether you are replacing enough fluid. Ask about local water precautions and when to return if diarrhoea or vomiting continues.