Cholera

Cholera is an acute diarrheal disease caused by infection with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae.

Cholera is an acute diarrheal disease caused by infection with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It spreads mainly through contaminated water or food and can cause severe dehydration and death within hours if untreated. Access to safe water, sanitation, hygiene, and prompt rehydration are central to prevention and treatment.

Cause and transmission

Cholera is caused by infection with Vibrio cholerae, especially the O1 and O139 serogroups. People usually become infected by consuming food or water contaminated with the bacterium.

Signs and symptoms

Common symptoms include sudden, severe watery diarrhoea, vomiting, and dehydration. Some infections are mild or asymptomatic, but severe cases can progress quickly to shock and death.

Treatment

Treatment focuses on replacing lost fluids and salts, usually with oral rehydration solution and, in more severe cases, intravenous fluids. Antibiotics may also be used in some patients.

Prevention

Preventive measures include safe drinking water, proper sanitation, hand hygiene, food safety, and vaccination in at-risk settings. Improving water and sanitation infrastructure is a major public health strategy.

Public health significance

Cholera remains a global public health threat and is closely linked to inequity and inadequate access to clean water and sanitation. Outbreaks can spread rapidly in crowded or unstable settings.