A – Z of Illnesses & Conditions

Cholera:  Cholera is an infection in the small intestine caused by bacteria. The main symptoms are vomiting and diarrhea. It occurs mainly by drinking water or eating food contaminated by feces of an infected person.

The severity of the diarrhea and vomiting can lead to rapid electrolyte imbalance, dehydration and even death. The main treatment is oral rehydration therapy to replace water and electrolytes. If there is no improvement, intravenous fluids can be used. Antibacterial drugs are beneficial in those with severe disease to shorten its duration and severity.

Without treatment, the combination of diarrhea and vomiting can cause a person to quickly become dehydrated and go into shock (where there is a sudden massive drop in blood pressure). In the most severe cases, the condition can be fatal.

Speak to a nurse or doctor about whether you need a cholera vaccination well in advance of travelling if you are considering visiting an area affected by cholera.