Cholera

It is estimated that up to 4.0 million cholera cases occur worldwide every year. Cholera can kill within hours if untreated.²

Mainly from drinking unclean water or eating contaminated food containing the bacteria which cause cholera.²

Cholera is common in a number of countries across Africa and Asia but has also been reported in other countries where people have returned ill after travelling (see map).^1,3,4 Outbreaks of the disease can also occur in countries where cholera was not previously common.²

Most people will not develop any symptoms, although they can still pass on the infection. Those who do develop symptoms can start to experience mild-moderate watery diarrhoea between 12 hours and 5 days after infection.²

Cholera can lead to severe watery diarrhoea and dehydration which can be fatal if not treated promptly.² Treatment may involve oral rehydration solution, additional fluids or even antibiotics depending on the severity of illness.²

You can take the following precautions to help reduce your risk of infection:

• Visit your nearest convenient pharmacy or specialist travel health clinic for a risk assessment before your trip
• Avoid eating raw or uncooked fruit and vegetables that you haven’t prepared yourself. Use bottled or boiled water for washing food³
• Avoid eating shellfish and seafood³
• Avoid ice and ice creams³
• Use boiled or bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth³
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the toilet³
• Avoid unsanitary living conditions to reduce your risk of cholera infection⁴