Cholera
Cholera is a bacterial infection of the gut, usually acquired from contaminated food or drinking water. Many infections cause no symptoms or only mild illness. Severe cases produce very large amounts of watery diarrhea and can cause dangerous dehydration within hours. The main risk is where safe water and sanitation are limited, including during outbreaks or disasters.
Prevention: Mixed
Symptoms
- Sudden watery diarrhea, sometimes in large amounts
- Vomiting and muscle cramps
- Thirst, weakness and reduced urination from dehydration
- Severe illness may cause collapse or shock
Transmission
- Drinking water contaminated with cholera bacteria
- Eating contaminated food, including raw or undercooked seafood
- Swallowing bacteria from hands or objects contaminated with infected stool
Prevention
Use safe drinking water, eat food that has been thoroughly cooked and wash hands with soap. Safe sanitation is essential. Cholera vaccination can help in certain settings but does not replace food and water precautions; suitability depends on the destination and personal circumstances.
Diagnosis and care
Profuse diarrhea or signs of dehydration need urgent care. Replacing lost fluids and salts promptly is the main treatment; severe illness may require hospital care.
Source
- Cholera
Based on CDC information
Source language: English
Source reviewed: April 23, 2025
Source accessed: May 17, 2026
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