What should you know about UNICEF cholera information?

Cholera is caused by bacteria acquired through contaminated water or food. The illness can produce large-volume watery diarrhoea, vomiting, thirst, muscle cramps and weakness. Fluid and salts leave the body quickly, which can lead to dry mouth, reduced urination, dizziness, sunken eyes, fast breathing or collapse. Some infected people have mild symptoms, while others become severely dehydrated. Diarrhoea has many causes, so a diagnosis may require assessment and testing, especially during an outbreak or after exposure to unsafe water.

Start oral rehydration therapy using a correctly prepared solution and take frequent small sips, including after each loose stool. Continue breastfeeding and offer suitable food when tolerated. Use safe water, wash hands with soap, and clean toilet and food-preparation surfaces. Do not rely on anti-diarrhoeal medicines for a child or a severely unwell person without clinical advice. A clinic may provide antibiotics for selected cases and IV fluid therapy when drinking cannot replace the losses.

Get urgent medical help for inability to drink, repeated vomiting, very little urine, faintness, confusion, cold hands and feet, severe weakness, blood in stool, or a child who becomes unusually sleepy. Seek prompt assessment for sudden watery diarrhoea after possible contaminated water or food, because dehydration can progress before thirst feels severe. Tell the clinic about travel, household illness and the water source.

How much oral rehydration solution should I take, and how should it be mixed? Do I need testing, antibiotics or IV fluid therapy? How can I protect other household members and make drinking water safe?