If you’re planning a trip abroad, especially to areas with limited access to clean water, it’s important to know about cholera. While it may not be common in the UK, cholera is still a risk in many countries. In this article, we’ll explain what cholera is, where you might be at risk, and how you can protect yourself – including the benefits of getting the cholera travel vaccine.
What Is Cholera?
Cholera is an infectious disease caused by bacteria called Vibrio cholerae. It spreads through contaminated water or food, especially in areas with poor sanitation. Cholera causes severe diarrhoea, which can lead to dehydration and, if not treated quickly, can be life-threatening.
The symptoms usually begin a few hours to five days after infection. Common symptoms include:
- Sudden, watery diarrhoea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Muscle cramps
- Dehydration (dry mouth, low urine output, sunken eyes)
If you’re in a region with limited healthcare or water purification, the illness can progress quickly, making cholera prevention for travellers extremely important.
Who Is at Risk?
Cholera is more common in some parts of the world than others. The cholera risk countries include:
- Parts of Africa (especially East and West Africa)
- South Asia (including India, Nepal, and Bangladesh)
- Southeast Asia (such as Cambodia and Vietnam)
- Some areas of the Caribbean and Central America
- Yemen and some Middle Eastern countries facing humanitarian crises
Travellers staying in rural areas, backpackers, or those visiting friends and relatives in high-risk countries may be at greater risk. People with low stomach acid, or those who eat street food and drink untreated water, are also more vulnerable.
How to Prevent Cholera While Travelling?
Prevention is always better than cure – especially when it comes to diseases like cholera that can spread rapidly in certain settings. Here are a few simple ways to stay safe:
Get the Cholera Vaccine
The oral cholera vaccine offers protection against the disease. It comes in two doses, taken one to six weeks apart. It is especially recommended if you’re:
- Travelling to high-risk countries
- Volunteering or working in disaster relief areas
- Visiting places with poor water and sanitation
- Travelling for long periods or to remote areas
Be Careful with Water
- Only drink bottled, boiled, or treated water
- Avoid ice in drinks unless you’re sure it was made from safe water
- Brush your teeth with bottled water
Watch What You Eat
- Avoid raw or undercooked seafood
- Stick to food that is hot and freshly cooked
- Avoid salads or fruits you haven’t peeled yourself
- Be cautious with street food
Why Does the Cholera Vaccine Matter?
While hygiene and food safety are vital, they may not always be enough, especially in areas with ongoing cholera outbreaks or poor infrastructure. The cholera travel vaccine offers added peace of mind.
It’s taken by mouth, so no needles are involved, and it helps your body fight off the infection if you’re exposed. While it doesn’t guarantee 100% protection, it significantly reduces your risk.
Stay One Step Ahead – Protect Your Health Before You Travel!
If you’re preparing for international travel, particularly to countries with known cholera outbreaks or limited sanitation, taking the right precautions can protect your health. Make the oral cholera vaccine part of your travel plan, and follow good hygiene and food safety practices.
Cholera is preventable, and taking the right steps now can help you enjoy your trip safely. Book your cholera travel vaccine appointment at Nima Pharmacy in Richmond or Stoneleigh today. Our travel health experts will guide you on what vaccines you need and when to take them. Convenient, professional, and tailored to your travel plans — we’re here to help you travel with confidence.