Cholera Vaccination
The cholera vaccination is given orally and usually involves two doses, which need to be taken a minimum of 7 days apart. In order to be protected abroad, you need to finish the course at least one week before travelling.
Prices
Price per dose: £40
Doses per course: 2
Price per course: £80
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About the vaccine
When to get vaccinated: You need to finish the course at least one week before travel. This means, that you need to get your first dose at least two weeks before travel. Please note: Timelines for paediatric vaccines differ.
Course: The course for adults consists of two doses given seven days apart.
How it is given: The cholera vaccine is given as a drink.
Side effects: You may experience temporary side effects such as fever, digestive problems or headache.
Children: The vaccine is suitable for children over the age of two.
Additional precautions: In addition to getting vaccinated you need to practise food, hand and water hygiene while in a risk area.
Risk if you contract cholera: Cholera can cause digestive problems such as severe diarrhoea and vomiting. It increases your risk of dehydration, which can be fatal.
Before the appointment: Avoid eating, drinking, and if possible taking medication for one hour before your appointment.
About the cholera vaccine
The cholera vaccination is administered orally, and the adult vaccination course consists of two doses, with a minimum gap of 7 days between them. To ensure protection while abroad, it’s essential to complete the course at least one week before your travel. It’s important to avoid food and drink for 1 hour before and 1 hour after vaccination.
You may require the cholera vaccine if you’re travelling to a country or region with a high risk of cholera or inadequate sanitation. This might be relevant if you’re heading to an area impacted by natural disasters or if you’ll be working in slums or refugee camps.
Adults remain protected for two years following the vaccination. However, children may need more frequent boosters and might require three doses of the cholera vaccine for full protection.
What is Cholera?
According to the World Health Organization, there are approximately 3.5 million cholera cases and 100,000 to 120,000 deaths worldwide due to cholera each year. A cholera vaccine provides protection against the infection and is 85% effective. Vaccination is particularly important for individuals travelling to remote regions, as well as for aid workers and medical professionals operating in areas where cholera is prevalent.
Cholera is caused by an infection with Vibrio cholerae bacteria. While improvements in sanitation systems and enhanced personal hygiene practices have eradicated cholera in many parts of Europe, the disease still persists in numerous countries. Cholera bacteria spread through contaminated food and water, as well as through contact with faeces. Cholera is not commonly transmitted directly from person to person.
The illness often remains asymptomatic, but it can produce symptoms affecting the digestive tract, such as diarrhoea, nausea, and vomiting. Some patients also experience stomach cramps. When left untreated, cholera can lead to complications, including dehydration and an imbalance of electrolytes, especially in hot climates. In severe cases, dehydration can be fatal. A cholera vaccine is available for travellers at risk of exposure.
How is Cholera transmitted?
Cholera is transmitted through contaminated water and foodstuffs. A crucial measure for preventing infection is to have control over your food choices and the source of your drinking water. The safest option is bottled water. Alternatively, you can boil water or use a filter or purification tablets to ensure it is safe for consumption. When staying in an area at risk of cholera, it is essential to take special care by regularly washing your hands, especially before handling food. It is also advisable to thoroughly cook all food and consume it while it is still hot or store it in a refrigerator. Our travel clinic nurses are available to provide guidance on the cholera vaccine and offer advice on maintaining good health while on your travels.
Side Effects
The cholera vaccine is usually well tolerated, with less than 1 in 100 patients experiencing side effects such as an upset stomach. Severe reactions to the vaccine are rare.