Cholera

Cholera is an acute intestinal infection caused by bacteria. It causes profuse, watery, painless diarrhoea, which can quickly lead to severe dehydration and death if not treated promptly.

Contamination occurs through direct contact with infected individuals (hands, clothing, corpses, etc.) and through the ingestion of contaminated water or food.

Protection against cholera consists of following a few food hygiene rules:

• drink only boiled or bottled water,
• avoid eating seafood,
• avoid eating raw vegetables and fruit.

Vaccination is the most effective way to protect yourself against cholera.

Vaccination method

• Vaccination: oral, single dose
• Booster: every 6 months (if the risk persists)