Cholera

Cholera is a serious bacterial infection of the small intestine caused by Vibrio cholerae. It is spread through contaminated water and food and is especially common in areas that may not have good sanitation, such as Africa and the Far East.

Symptoms of cholera include nausea, muscle cramps, and vomiting and diarrhea that lead to severe dehydration. Treatment includes replacing lost fluids to treat dehydration. People who are traveling to areas where cholera is active may be advised to get a cholera vaccination to reduce their risk of getting the infection.

Current as of: July 29, 2016

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine & E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & W. David Colby IV, MSc, MD, FRCPC - Infectious Disease