Certain bacteria cause cholera. They grow and release a toxin in the small bowel. People get it from drinking water or eating food that had contact with infected human stool.

Small Intestines

Risk Factors

Cholera is common in countries that lack proper sewage treatment. The risk is higher in those who:

Live or travel to places where cholera is common
Are exposed to the bacteria in water or seafood
Have a weak immune system
Are in blood group O

Symptoms

Some people do not have symptoms. Those who do may have:

Nausea and vomiting
Lots of watery diarrhea
Muscle cramps
Thirst

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms, and health and travel history. A physical exam will be done. Stool tests will confirm a diagnosis.

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to treat the infection and replace lost fluids. Antibiotics will fight the infection. Fluids will be given by IV or by mouth.

Prevention

Adults aged 18 to 64 years can get a vaccine. This can be given before traveling to places where cholera is common.

When traveling to these places:

Drink and use safe water—bottled or boiled water.
Wash hands often.
Eat only well-cooked foods that are served hot.
Peel fruits and vegetables.
Talk to the doctor about antibiotics.

RESOURCES:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
https://www.cdc.gov

World Health Organization
http://www.who.int

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

Alberta Health Services
https://www.albertahealthservices.ca

Public Health Agency of Canada
https://www.canada.ca

References:

Cholera. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/cholera/general/index.html. Accessed February 5, 2021.

Cholera. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/cholera . Accessed February 5, 2021.

Cholera. Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/infectious-diseases/gram-negative-bacilli/cholera. Accessed February 5, 2021.

Cholera. World Health Organization website. Available at:
...(Click grey area to select URL)
Accessed February 5, 2021.

Last reviewed September 2020 by David L. Horn, MD, FACP
Last Updated: 2/5/2021

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