What is cholera?

Cholera is a severe diarrhoeal disease caused by some strains of the bacterium Vibrio cholerae.
There has not been a case of cholera acquired in Australia since 1977. Cases are seen in travellers arriving from countries where the disease is still present such as Africa, Asia, Latin America and Central Europe. Outbreaks are seen in areas with poor sanitation.

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How do you get cholera?

Cholera is spread by:

• drinking contaminated water
• eating food that has been washed with contaminated water or soiled hands
• eating fish or shellfish from contaminated waters
• person to person contact is rare

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What are the signs and symptoms of cholera?

In adults symptoms can appear from just a few hours to 5 days after exposure, although in most cases symptoms occur after 12 - 24 hours.
Symptoms include:

• sudden onset of profuse, watery diarrhoea- characteristic ‘rice water’ stools
• nausea and vomiting
• dehydration
• fever
• stomach cramps

Children with cholera may have mild or no symptoms.

People are infectious while symptoms are present and for a few days after recovery. Some people can carry the bacteria in their faeces for months or years later while still spreading the disease to others.
Cholera can be life threatening and in severe untreated cases death can occur within hours.

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How do I get treated?

• Drink plenty of fluids immediately to prevent dehydration from diarrhoea and vomiting. Oral rehydration fluids are recommended and can be purchased from pharmacies. This is usually all that is required in mild to moderate disease.
• Intravenous fluid replacement may be necessary for people who are severely dehydrated or those who cannot keep fluids down.
• Avoid anti-vomiting or anti-diarrhoeal medications unless prescribed or recommended by a doctor.
• Antibiotics can shorten the duration of illness and lessen the severity of symptoms. Consult your GP or a doctor of your choice.

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What do I do if I have cholera?

• Do not go to work for at least 24 hours after symptoms have stopped.
• Do not handle or prepare food for the family or household for at least 24 hours after symptoms have stopped.
• Keep children home from school for at least 24 hours after symptoms have stopped.
• People in hospitals, nursing homes and other residential facilities should be nursed in their own room, with a private bathroom for at least 24 hours after symptoms have stopped.
• Immediately remove and wash any clothes or bedding contaminated with vomit or diarrhoea using
  soap and hot water.
• Thoroughly clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces immediately after an episode of illness by using a bleach-based household cleaner.

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How do I reduce the risks of getting cholera?

• Wash hands with soap and water after changing nappies and before preparing or handling food or drinks. To wash your hands effectively, lather thoroughly with soap and running water for at least 15 seconds. Dry your hands with a clean single use towel (e.g. paper towel) and turn the tap off with the towel to avoid possible recontamination.
• If hand washing facilities are not available use an alcohol-based gel.
• Make sure foods are thoroughly cooked.

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Is there a vaccination against cholera?

Yes. Cholera vaccination is available in Australia but is not completely effective. Consult your GP or a doctor of your choice about protecting yourself against cholera before travelling overseas.

Where can I find more information on cholera?

For further information contact your GP, a doctor of your choice or Health Direct (1800 022 222).