What should you know about second cholera pandemic?

Cholera is an intestinal infection acquired by swallowing food or water contaminated with the bacterium that causes it. It can lead to sudden, profuse watery [Diarrhoea](/symptoms/diarrhoea/), with the main danger being rapid loss of water and salts rather than the historical label itself.

Safe drinking water, sanitation, handwashing, and properly prepared food reduce transmission. A historical pandemic does not mean every current episode of diarrhoea is cholera, but severe watery diarrhoea after exposure to unsafe water or during an outbreak needs prompt medical advice.

Begin [Oral Rehydration Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/oral-rehydration-therapy/) promptly when advised, using a correctly prepared solution and taking frequent small sips. Continue breastfeeding and offer suitable food when tolerated. Do not rely on sugary drinks or attempt to treat severe dehydration with home remedies alone.

Use safe water for drinking, cooking, handwashing, and preparing rehydration solution. Keep soiled laundry and bathroom surfaces clean, and follow local public-health instructions if cholera is suspected. Clinicians may use antibiotics for selected patients, but rehydration remains central.

Seek urgent care for very frequent watery diarrhoea, repeated vomiting, extreme thirst, dry mouth, little or no urine, dizziness, sunken eyes, unusual sleepiness, confusion, fainting, or inability to drink. Severe dehydration may require [IV Fluid Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/iv-fluid-therapy/), especially when fluids cannot be kept down.

Ask whether testing is needed, how to prepare and use oral rehydration solution, which warning signs require immediate return, and how to protect household members from contaminated water or surfaces.