What should you know about vaccination against cholera?

Cholera is an infection that can cause sudden, profuse watery diarrhoea and rapid loss of fluid. An oral vaccine is designed for selected situations, such as travel or living in an area where cholera transmission is a concern. Protection is not a substitute for drinking treated water, washing hands, and choosing food that is cooked and served hot. Ask a clinician or travel health service whether the vaccine fits your destination, health history and plans.

Arrange advice before travel so there is time to review the recommended schedule. Tell the clinician about pregnancy, immune problems, severe allergies, current illness and medicines. Follow the product instructions about food and drink around each dose. During travel, use sealed or treated water, avoid raw foods that cannot be peeled, and carry oral rehydration supplies. If diarrhoea develops, begin oral rehydration therapy promptly and seek advice if fluids are difficult to keep down.

Urgent assessment is needed for frequent watery diarrhoea, faintness, confusion, very little urine, a dry mouth, sunken eyes or marked weakness. These can signal serious dehydration, which may worsen quickly. Seek emergency help if the person collapses, cannot drink, or becomes unusually drowsy. Hospital treatment may include IV fluid therapy when drinking is not enough or dehydration is severe. See a clinician promptly after travel if diarrhoea persists or is accompanied by fever or blood.

Ask whether vaccination is advised for your destination, which doses are appropriate, how long protection is expected to last, and what precautions remain necessary. Check what to do if diarrhoea begins and where to obtain urgent help while travelling.