Cholera
Vibrio cholerae
Overview
Cholera is an acute intestinal infection caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. Infection most often occurs after consuming contaminated water or food. Many cases are mild, but severe watery diarrhea can develop and lead to dehydration.
The most important step is prompt fluid replacement. For travelers, risk is higher in settings with limited access to safe water and sanitation.
Detailed Symptoms
Cholera primarily affects the gut and fluid/electrolyte balance.
- watery diarrhea - nausea and vomiting - muscle cramps (due to electrolyte loss) - intense thirst, dry mouth - weakness, dizziness
Symptoms
No symptom data available.
Treatment
Treatment focuses on rapid rehydration (oral rehydration salts or, in more severe cases, intravenous fluids) and electrolyte replacement. Antibiotics may be used in selected situations as decided by a clinician. Anti‑diarrheal medicines are not always appropriate—seek medical advice if unsure.
Course of Disease
Incubation is usually short (days). Illness can be mild or progress quickly—severe dehydration requires urgent medical care.
Complications
No complication data available.
Prevention Details
Best protection combines safe water and food practices with hygiene. For some travelers (e.g., visiting outbreak areas), vaccination may be an additional option after medical advice.
Prevention
No prevention data available.
Epidemiology
Cholera occurs in outbreaks in multiple regions, especially where safe water and sanitation are limited. Travel risk depends on destination, local hygiene standards, and current public‑health situation.
Risk Factors
Higher risk is associated with unsafe drinking water, raw foods, travel to areas with limited sanitation, humanitarian work, and crisis settings (e.g., after natural disasters).
Indications
- consider vaccination when traveling to outbreak areas or when exposure risk is higher - discuss prevention in a travel‑medicine clinic
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is guided by symptoms and exposure history (including travel) and can be confirmed with laboratory testing of stool samples.
Prognosis
With timely rehydration, outcomes are usually good. Delayed treatment increases the risk of complications in severe dehydration.
Names & Synonyms
Common Names
Alternative Names
Content Warnings
This information is educational and does not replace medical advice. If you feel unwell, contact a clinician.
Review Information
Last reviewed by
SafeTripVax Medical Team
Review notes
Based on WHO and CDC guidance. Reviewed periodically as recommendations evolve.
Medical Information
- Transmission
- pokarmowa, wodna
- Incubation Period
- 1 - 5 days
- Causative Agent
- Vibrio cholerae (bakteria)
- ICD Codes
- ICD-10: A00
- Vaccine-preventable
- Yes