What should you know about person with cholera?

Cholera is an intestinal infection that can cause large-volume watery diarrhoea, vomiting, thirst, weakness, muscle cramps, and signs of dehydration. The main immediate danger is loss of water and salts, not simply the number of bowel movements. A person may become seriously unwell even when abdominal pain is limited.

Cholera can spread through contaminated water or food. Wash hands carefully after using the toilet and before preparing food, use safe water, and avoid preparing food for others while unwell. Medical teams may need to assess the person and local public-health advice may apply.

Start oral rehydration therapy if the person is awake and able to drink, using the prepared solution as directed. Give frequent small sips, including after diarrhoea or vomiting. Do not rely on sugary drinks alone. If the person cannot drink, is becoming drowsy, or has severe dehydration, IV fluid therapy may be needed in an urgent-care setting.

Seek urgent medical care for suspected cholera, especially with repeated watery diarrhoea, vomiting, very little urine, extreme thirst, dizziness, sunken eyes, cold skin, confusion, or marked weakness. Emergency help is needed if the person collapses, cannot swallow fluids, or becomes difficult to wake.

How severe is the dehydration, and what rehydration plan should we follow? Does the person need IV fluids, testing, medicine, or monitoring? How should household contacts reduce the risk of spread?