Cholera Vaccination
The cholera vaccination is administered orally and typically involves two doses, which must be taken at least seven days apart. To ensure protection while abroad, you need to complete the course at least one week before travelling.
When to get vaccinated
You must complete the course at least one week before travel. This means that the first dose should be taken at least two weeks before your trip.
How it is given
The cholera vaccine is administered as a drink.
Children
The vaccine is suitable for children aged two and over.
Risks if you contract cholera
Cholera can lead to digestive problems such as diarrhoea and vomiting which can lead on to dehydration and become life threatening.
Course
Adults receive two doses, given at least seven days apart but no more than 6 weeks apart.
Side effects
Temporary side effects may be experienced such as fever, digestive problems or headaches. Severe side effects are rare.
Additional precautions
Along with the vaccination it’s important to maintain food, hand and water hygiene while in high-risk areas.
Before the appointment
You must refrain from eating, drinking and taking medication for one hour before your appointment.
What is Cholera?
There are an estimated 3.5 million cholera cases worldwide each year. Of these, there are approximately 100,000-120,000 deaths (source: World Health Organization).
The cholera vaccination is incredibly important for people travelling in remote areas without access to clean drinking water around the world and provides up to 85% protection against the infection. Aid workers and medical staff are encouraged to have the cholera vaccination as they typically work in cholera-prone areas around the world.
The bacteria Vibrio cholerae causes cholera and to this day is very prevalent in many parts of the world, less so in Europe where sanitation and hygiene improvements over time have prevented outbreaks of cholera. Transmission of the bacteria tends to happen through contaminated food and water, or if people come into contact with faeces. Cholera is not commonly passed directly from one person to another.
Healthy people who contract cholera may not develop symptoms but those who do can suffer from diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting and in some cases stomach cramps. Left untreated, cholera can lead to some serious complications including dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, especially in hot climates. In extremely severe cases, dehydration can be life threatening.
