What should you know about five causes of cholera?

The bacteria can enter the mouth through drinking water contaminated with human waste, food prepared with unsafe water, raw or undercooked food handled after cooking, unwashed hands, or shared surfaces and utensils that carry contamination. Infection can cause sudden watery diarrhoea and vomiting, leading to rapid loss of water and salts. Many infected people have mild or no symptoms, but severe dehydration can become dangerous quickly.

Start [Oral Rehydration Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/oral-rehydration-therapy/) promptly if diarrhoea or vomiting occurs, following the product instructions. Use safe water, wash hands with soap, separate towels and utensils, and cook food thoroughly. Seek medical care promptly because a clinician may need to assess hydration and prescribe additional treatment. Severe dehydration may require [IV Fluid Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/iv-fluid-therapy/).

Get urgent help for very frequent watery stools, repeated vomiting, inability to drink, extreme thirst, dry mouth, little or no urine, dizziness, fainting, confusion, unusual sleepiness, or cold hands and feet. Infants, older adults, pregnant people, and anyone with a significant medical condition can deteriorate quickly. Do not wait for testing before seeking help when dehydration is developing.

Ask whether the symptoms suggest cholera or another cause of [Diarrhoea](/symptoms/diarrhoea/), which rehydration fluid to use, how to protect household members, and whether testing or antibiotics are appropriate.