Countries At Risk
Cholera occurs in countries where there is poor sanitation and hygiene. It occurs in areas where there is a limited access to clean water and food and higher rates occur in places of natural disasters.
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.
