Countries At Risk
Cholera is a water-borne illness that is prevalent in areas with inadequate sanitation and hygiene. It is also known that higher rates are found in communities that have experienced natural disasters and in areas where people lack simple access to food and clean water.
Cholera outbreaks are common in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mozambique, Nigeria, Somalia, Ethiopia, and Malawi, putting travellers at higher risk in several parts of sub-Saharan Africa. Seasonal flooding and inadequate infrastructure are typically associated with these epidemics. Cholera is a common disease in South Asia, especially in areas with poor sanitation and a large population, such as Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Pakistan. Due to conflict and displacement in the Middle East, Yemen has seen serious diseases. In addition, rare events occur in Iraq and Syria. Some of the worst cholera outbreaks in the Caribbean have recently struck Haiti, and they have periodically spread to the Dominican Republic.
We strongly recommend that you book a travel consultation with us prior to your departure to discuss the necessary vaccinations.
Travel Precautions
Drink only from a sealed water bottle or water that has been boiled. Avoid ice and salads washed with tap water. Eat only fruit that can be peeled, and refrain from consuming uncooked food. Make sure all food is freshly cooked and served piping hot.
Signs & Symptoms
Initial symptoms typically appear 1-5 days after ingesting the bacteria. These include severe watery diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and stomach cramps.
The Vaccination
The cholera vaccine consists of two doses given over a 1-6 week period, providing protection for up to two years. It is administered as a drink, and should be taken on an empty stomach, meaning no food or drink (including water) should be consumed for at least one hour before or after the vaccine. The vaccine reduces the risk of traveler’s diarrhea by 50%, making it a valuable option for many travelers, even those not heading to high-risk cholera areas.
Our Bromley Travel Clinics
Conveniently located clinics in Bromley, South London.
