Cholera is a serious illness that causes severe diarrhoea and dehydration. It is spread through contaminated food and water. Though it can happen at any time of the year, experts have noticed that cholera outbreaks are more common in the spring season. But why is that? Let’s understand the reasons behind this trend and what you can do to stay safe from cholera this spring.
Why Is Cholera More Common in Spring?
Spring is a time of change. The weather warms up after the cold winter, and many places see increased rainfall and melting snow. These seasonal changes can directly affect water sources and hygiene conditions, especially in areas with poor sanitation. Here’s how spring creates a higher risk for cholera:
Contaminated Water Sources
During spring, rainwater runoff can mix with sewage or dirty water, especially in areas with broken drainage systems. This leads to contamination of water used for drinking or cooking, one of the most common sources of cholera infection.
Temperature Rise Encourages Bacteria Growth
Cholera bacteria, Vibrio cholerae, grow faster in warm and wet conditions. The increasing temperatures and moisture of spring create the perfect environment for the bacteria to thrive in water bodies and food left out in the open.
Changes in Travel and Gatherings
With better weather, people travel more, attend festivals, or visit relatives. Increased human movement and large gatherings can lead to poor sanitation and faster spread of cholera in spring, especially in areas with limited access to clean toilets and handwashing facilities.
Poor Waste Management
In some regions, the spring season exposes problems like blocked drainage or open defecation, which become bigger health risks as the warm, moist weather allows bacteria to survive longer in the environment.
Common Sources of Cholera Infection in Spring
To stay safe, it’s important to know how cholera spreads. Here are the most common sources to be careful about:
- Unclean drinking water from rivers, ponds, or stored tanks
- Raw or undercooked seafood, especially shellfish from unsafe waters
- Unwashed fruits and vegetables handled with dirty hands
- Street food that is exposed to flies or not stored properly
- Improper hand hygiene, especially before meals or after using the toilet
Best Ways to Stay Safe from Cholera This Spring
You can take simple but effective steps to avoid cholera this season. Here are the top prevention tips from health experts:
- Drink Safe Water: Always drink water that has been boiled, filtered, or treated with chlorine tablets. Avoid ice cubes made from untreated water.
- Eat Fresh and Well-Cooked Food: Make sure food is cooked thoroughly and eaten while it’s still hot. Wash fruits and vegetables with clean water before eating.
- Avoid Street Food If Hygiene Is Doubtful: Only eat from clean vendors or restaurants that maintain good hygiene practices. Look for food that is freshly cooked and served hot.
- Get Vaccinated Before Travel: If you’re travelling to areas where cholera is common, a cholera vaccine can offer extra protection. It is especially important for people with weaker immune systems or children.
Seasonal Cholera Trends: Why Prevention Matters
While seasonal cholera trends show higher risk in spring, outbreaks can be avoided with good public awareness and preparation. Cholera spreads fast, but can also be controlled quickly if people follow hygiene rules and seek treatment early.
Symptoms of cholera include:
- Sudden watery diarrhoea
- Vomiting
- Rapid dehydration If not treated, it can become life-threatening. Fortunately, rehydration and early medical care can save lives.
Spring into Safety – Protect Yourself with a Travel Vaccine!
Planning to travel or just want to be extra safe this spring? Book an appointment for a travel vaccination against cholera at Anna Pharmacy, available at Sutton, Carshalton, and Hackbridge. Our trained pharmacists can guide you on the right precautions and ensure you’re protected before your journey. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear—protect your health and your loved ones today with expert care and vaccination services.