What is Cholera?
Cholera is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae.
It primarily affects the small intestine and leads to severe diarrhoea and dehydration.
Cholera is typically transmitted through contaminated water and food, and it can spread rapidly in areas with poor sanitation and limited access to clean water.
Where can I get a Cholera vaccine in the UK?
Smarta Healthcare offers Cholera vaccinations for patients in and around Bedford, Milton Keynes, Luton, Letchworth, Biggleswade, St Neots, Cambridge, Sandy, Hitchin and Huntingdon, or further afield.
Book an AskMyPharmacist travel health consultation today
How much does the Cholera vaccination cost?
The Cholera vaccination costs £35 per dose and 2 doses are required.
The Cholera Vaxchora vaccination costs £60 and 1 dose is required.
Discounts are available for families, groups and students.
If you have any questions about required or recommended travel vaccinations, book an AskMyPharmacist travel health consultation at least 4 weeks before your departure date.
Where are Cholera destinations?
Cholera is more commonly found in regions with poor sanitation, lack of access to clean water, and crowded living conditions. Some regions where cholera is endemic or where outbreaks are more likely to occur include:
- Sub-Saharan Africa: Cholera is frequently reported in various countries in sub-Saharan Africa, including regions with poor sanitation and limited access to clean water.
- South Asia: Countries in South Asia, such as Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan, have experienced cholera outbreaks due to factors like contaminated water sources and overcrowded living conditions.
- Southeast Asia: Cholera has been reported in parts of Southeast Asia, including countries like Myanmar, Cambodia, and Vietnam.
- Haiti and other parts of the Caribbean: Cholera outbreaks have occurred in Haiti and some other Caribbean nations, often linked to inadequate water and sanitation infrastructure.
- Central and South America: Certain regions in Central and South America, including parts of Peru, Ecuador, and some coastal areas, have reported cholera cases.
It’s important to note that while cholera is more common in certain areas, outbreaks can occur in any part of the world, especially in the aftermath of natural disasters, conflicts, or situations where there is compromised sanitation and water infrastructure.
Your healthcare professional will review your travel destinations before making recommendations about vaccines and keeping safe abroad.
How is Cholera transmitted?
Cholera is mainly spread through the ingestion of water or food contaminated with the Vibrio cholerae bacterium.
Contaminated water sources, inadequate sewage disposal, and unsanitary food handling practices contribute to the spread of the disease.
What are the symptoms of Cholera?
The primary symptom of cholera is profuse, watery diarrhoea that can lead to rapid dehydration.
Other symptoms may include vomiting and muscle cramps.
If you have symptoms of cholera, you must let a medical professional know what regions you have visited recently.
How can I protect myself against Cholera?
Vaccines are recommended for individuals traveling to areas with a high risk of cholera.
Book your AskMyPharmacist travel health consultation as soon as possible to understand the vaccinations you may require for your trip.
If you’re traveling to an area where cholera is prevalent:
- Avoid eating raw fruits and vegetables, especially if they have been cut
- Wash your hands with soap and water frequently, especially before cooking or handling food
- Drink bottled or boiled water
- Stay cautious around water sources, avoid swimming in or consuming water from uncertain bodies of water, and practice proper sanitation and waste disposal.
Select your destination
Use the tool below to find the recommended vaccinations for your travel destination. Select the continent or the country from the drop down menu. You can then book your appointment at our Smarta Healthcare Clinic.
