When most people hear the word cholera, they think of history books and Victorian-era epidemics. But despite its old-fashioned reputation, cholera is still very much a present-day risk, particularly for travellers heading to certain regions of the world.

At Sudbury Court Pharmacy and Travel Clinic, we frequently speak to travellers who are surprised to learn that cholera outbreaks continue to occur across Africa, Asia, and parts of Central and South America. If you’ve got upcoming travel plans, especially to areas with limited access to clean water and sanitation, it’s worth understanding the current risks – and how the cholera vaccine can help protect you.

What Is Cholera?

Cholera is an acute diarrhoeal illness caused by ingesting food or water contaminated with the Vibrio cholerae bacterium. It spreads rapidly in areas with poor sanitation, particularly following natural disasters or in refugee settings.

Symptoms typically include:

• –> Sudden onset of watery diarrhoea

• –> Vomiting

• –> Severe dehydration

• –> Muscle cramps

Left untreated, cholera can lead to severe dehydration and even death within hours. The good news is that it’s preventable – both through good hygiene practices and, for many travellers, vaccination.

Is Cholera Still a Problem Today?

Yes, cholera remains a significant health risk in many parts of the world. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), millions of cholera cases occur each year, resulting in tens of thousands of deaths.

Recent outbreaks have been reported in countries including:

• –> Bangladesh

• –> India

• –> Nigeria

• –> Yemen

• –> Democratic Republic of Congo

• –> Haiti

• –> Malawi

Outbreaks are often associated with poor sanitation infrastructure or emergency situations, such as after earthquakes, floods, or in areas affected by conflict.

Even in popular travel destinations, rural or undeveloped areas may lack access to clean water and reliable sewage systems, making cholera a concern for adventurous travellers, aid workers, and backpackers.

Who Is Most at Risk?

While any traveller could potentially be exposed, certain groups are at higher risk of contracting cholera:

• –> Travellers visiting remote or rural areas with poor sanitation

• –> Humanitarian aid workers

• –> Volunteers or long-term travellers

• –> People visiting friends and relatives in high-risk regions

• –> Individuals with underlying health conditions that may increase vulnerability to dehydration

If any of these apply to you, it’s wise to speak to a travel health professional about your destination and whether you should consider the cholera vaccine.

How Does the Cholera Vaccine Work?

In the UK, the cholera vaccine is known as Dukoral. It’s an oral vaccine (not an injection) and comes in the form of a drink.

Dukoral works by stimulating your body’s natural immune defences in the gut. It protects against the most common strain of cholera (Vibrio cholerae O1) and also provides some protection against a type of E. coli that causes traveller’s diarrhoea.

Vaccine Schedule:

• –> Adults and children over 6 years: Two doses taken at least one week apart

• –> Children aged 2 to 6 years: Three doses

• –> You must finish the course at least one week before travel

Protection lasts for up to two years in adults and six months in younger children. If it’s been longer than that since your last dose, a booster may be recommended before your next trip.

Is the Cholera Vaccine Safe?

Yes. The cholera vaccine is very well-tolerated, and side effects are rare. Some people may experience mild stomach discomfort or nausea, but serious reactions are extremely uncommon.

Because it’s an oral vaccine, it’s also a good option for people who prefer to avoid injections.

Additional Ways to Stay Protected

While the cholera vaccine offers strong protection, it should always be combined with careful hygiene and food safety practices:

• –> Drink bottled or boiled water

• –> Avoid ice in drinks

• –> Eat only freshly cooked food

• –> Peel fruit yourself

• –> Avoid street food if unsure of hygiene standards

• –> Wash hands regularly, especially before eating

Following these precautions, along with vaccination where appropriate, can significantly reduce your risk.

Why Visit Sudbury Court Pharmacy and Travel Clinic?

If you’ve searched for information about the cholera vaccine, or even typed travel clinic near me recently, we’re here to help.

Our clinic in Harrow offers:

• Personalised travel health consultations

• Cholera vaccinations and advice tailored to your itinerary

• Support for last-minute and long-stay travellers

• A convenient and professional service close to home

Our team is highly experienced in travel medicine and will guide you through every step, ensuring you’re protected and fully prepared.

Book Your Travel Health Appointment Today

Don’t let preventable illness disrupt your trip. Whether you’re heading to India, Africa, South America, or a remote island, the cholera vaccine could be a vital part of your travel checklist.

Contact Sudbury Court Pharmacy and Travel Clinic today to arrange your consultation and get peace of mind for your journey. Safe travels start here.

This blog was written on behalf of Sudbury Court Pharmacy and Travel Clinic by Pharmacy Mentor.