Does oral rehydration therapy treat cholera?

Cholera can cause sudden, large-volume watery diarrhoea, with rapid loss of water and electrolytes. Oral rehydration solution helps replace those losses through the gut and can support the body while a clinician assesses the illness. It does not remove the bacteria or make the infection harmless. Severe dehydration may require fluids through a vein, and a clinician may prescribe other treatment based on the person’s age, condition, and local guidance.

Treat suspected cholera as an urgent illness. Begin frequent small sips of correctly prepared oral rehydration solution while arranging medical care, even if diarrhoea continues. Continue breastfeeding infants if applicable, and avoid preparing drinks with unclean water. Wash hands carefully after using the toilet and before preparing food. Do not delay assessment to see whether home fluids alone are enough.

Seek urgent medical care for sudden watery diarrhoea, especially with vomiting, intense thirst, dizziness, weakness, confusion, sunken eyes, or very little urine. Emergency help is needed if the person cannot drink, becomes difficult to wake, faints, or deteriorates quickly. Young children, older adults, pregnant people, and those with chronic illness need particularly prompt assessment.

Could this illness be cholera or another infection? How should I replace fluids while diarrhoea continues? Does anyone in my household need testing or preventive advice?