What is Cholera?

Cholera is an illness caused by the bacterium (germ) Vibrio cholerae that causes diarrhea.

Why has cholera become a current issue?

Cholera contaminated food is considered to be a potential agent for use in biological warfare.

How common is cholera and how do you get it?

Cholera is not common in the United States, but it is common in countries that have poor water and sewage treatment practices.  You can get cholera by drinking contaminated water or eating contaminated food.  Some in the United States have contracted cholera by eating raw or undercooked shellfish.  Travelers from the United States to countries where cholera is widespread may also develop cholera.

What are the symptoms of cholera?

• Profuse (a lot of) watery diarrhea, vomiting, and leg cramps. Diarrhea and vomiting can lead to dehydration and shock. Without treatment, death can occur within hours.
• The time period between exposure to cholera and occurrence of the symptoms is a few hours to 5 days.

Can cholera be spread from person-to-person?

Cholera is not likely to spread directly from person-to-person.

Is there a way to prevent infection?

Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the bathroom, after changing baby’s diapers, before preparing meals and before eating.  Be sure to properly dispose of bodily wastes and properly wash or dispose of soiled diapers.  Do not drink untreated water.  Do not eat raw or undercooked fish and shellfish.  While traveling outside of the country, follow the rule:  “Boil it, cook it, peel it, wash it, or forget it.”  For more information on traveler safety, call the Centers for Disease Control’s traveler’s information telephone line toll-free at 877-FYI-TRIP (394-8747) or check out their website at http://www.cdc.gov/travel.

How is cholera diagnosed?

Cholera is diagnosed by laboratory tests that can detect the bacterium in stool samples.

Is there a treatment for cholera?

Cholera can be treated by immediate fluid replacement with oral and intravenous solutions.  Antibiotics can shorten the course and decrease the severity of the illness.

Is there a vaccine for cholera?

There is no longer a vaccine for cholera available in the United States.