What should you know about fact about cholera?

Cholera affects the small intestine and can lead to large losses of water and salts through repeated, watery stools. Thirst, dry mouth, weakness, dizziness, reduced urination, and sunken eyes can signal dehydration. Vomiting may add to the fluid loss. A person can become seriously unwell quickly, especially a young child, older adult, or someone already weakened by illness. Cholera spreads when food or water is contaminated with the bacteria, and careful hand hygiene helps reduce transmission.

Start oral rehydration solution if the person is awake and able to drink, using it exactly as directed on the packet. Offer frequent small sips rather than waiting for thirst. Arrange urgent medical assessment because treatment may need close monitoring, prescribed medicine, or fluids through a vein. Avoid relying on fizzy drinks or very sweet juices as the main rehydration method. Wash hands with soap and water, use safe drinking water, and avoid preparing food for others while diarrhoea continues.

Seek urgent help for severe thirst, confusion, fainting, extreme weakness, very little urine, inability to keep fluids down, or ongoing profuse watery diarrhoea. Emergency assessment is also needed if the person is difficult to wake, has signs of shock, or is a child or older adult becoming rapidly less alert. A clinician can assess dehydration and decide whether oral rehydration is enough or whether IV Fluid Therapy is needed.

Ask which rehydration product and amount are suitable, whether testing is needed, how to protect household contacts, and which symptoms mean you should return immediately.