Cholera Vaccination

What is Cholera?

Cholera is a severe bacterial infection causing acute watery diarrhoea, dehydration and in serious cases death. It is found in areas with poor sanitation and unsafe water supplies, predominantly in parts of Sub-Saharan Africa, South and Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Central America. Outbreaks can also occur following natural disasters or in refugee settings.

About the Cholera vaccine (Dukoral)

The cholera vaccine used in the UK is Dukoral, an oral vaccine taken as a drink. It provides protection against cholera and also offers some protection against enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC), one of the most common causes of traveller's diarrhoea. This dual protection makes it a useful choice for travellers heading to high-risk areas who are concerned about food and water safety.

The primary course consists of two doses taken one to six weeks apart, both must be completed at least one week before travel.

Who needs the Cholera vaccine?

Cholera vaccination is recommended for:

• Aid workers, healthcare workers and those responding to disaster situations
• Long-stay travellers to areas with poor sanitation
• Travellers to areas where cholera outbreaks are active
• Adventurous travellers taking part in activities with limited access to safe food and water
• Anyone particularly concerned about traveller's diarrhoea

What to expect

Each dose is an oral solution, mixed with water and taken as a drink. No injection involved. Each dose takes approximately five minutes. The vaccine is generally very well tolerated.