Travelling abroad can be exciting, but it also comes with health risks that are sometimes overlooked. One of these risks is cholera, a serious illness caused by contaminated water and food. Globally, cholera affects between 1.3 and 4 million people each year, resulting in up to 143,000 deaths.
Understanding how cholera spreads and knowing the right steps to stay safe can make a big difference, especially if you are visiting areas where the illness is more common.
How Cholera Spreads: Key Sources of Infection
Cholera is caused by a bacterium called Vibrio cholerae. It spreads mainly through water or food that has been contaminated with the bacteria. This contamination often happens when human waste enters water supplies that are later used for drinking or cooking. In places with poor sanitation and limited clean water, the chances of exposure are much higher.
Once a person drinks contaminated water or eats affected food, the bacteria release toxins in the small intestine. This leads to sudden watery diarrhoea and dehydration, which can become life-threatening if not treated quickly. Since it is a contaminated water illness, outbreaks are often linked to unsafe water sources, unhygienic food handling, and poor sanitation.
Areas Where Cholera is Common
While cholera can appear anywhere, it is more often reported in certain parts of the world. Travellers heading to countries in Africa and Asia are at a higher risk. These regions experience more frequent outbreaks due to challenges with clean water and sanitation systems. If you are planning a trip to rural areas, refugee camps, or places affected by natural disasters, the risk becomes even greater.
Other Waterborne Diseases Linked to Travel
Cholera is not the only health risk connected to unsafe water. Travellers may also face other waterborne diseases while abroad, such as typhoid, hepatitis A, or traveller’s diarrhoea. These illnesses spread in a similar way and can affect your trip if you are not careful. Being aware of contaminated water illness risks helps you prepare better and avoid falling sick.
Practical Cholera Prevention Tips
The good news is that there are many simple steps you can take to reduce your risk while travelling:
- Drink only safe water: Always choose bottled water with a sealed cap or water that has been boiled or treated. Avoid tap water and ice made from it.
- Be careful with food: Eat food that is freshly cooked and served hot. Avoid raw salads, unwashed fruits, and street food in high-risk areas.
- Follow good travel hygiene advice: Wash your hands regularly with soap and safe water, especially before eating. When soap is not available, use alcohol-based sanitiser.
- Avoid undercooked seafood: Fish and shellfish from unsafe water can carry the bacteria. Stick to well-cooked meals.
- Consider vaccination: A cholera vaccine is available and may be advised for travellers going to areas with ongoing outbreaks. Speak with our pharmacists to check if it is suitable for your trip.
How to Recognise Cholera Symptoms Early?
If you develop sudden watery diarrhoea, vomiting, and signs of dehydration such as dizziness, dry mouth, or muscle cramps, it may be cholera. These symptoms usually appear quickly, sometimes within hours of exposure. Getting medical help right away is essential, as severe dehydration can be dangerous.
How to Stay Safe from Cholera on Your Trip?
Travel should be about new experiences, not health worries. By understanding how cholera spreads and following simple cholera prevention tips, you can reduce your risk while abroad. Whether you are heading to a busy city in Asia or a rural village in Africa, safe water, good hygiene, and the right vaccinations are your best protection.
Cholera and other waterborne diseases travel quickly in communities where clean water is scarce. As a traveller, your personal choices can protect you from illness and ensure your trip goes smoothly. Carrying rehydration salts, keeping sanitiser handy, and being mindful of what you eat and drink are small steps that can have a big impact.
Protect Yourself Against Cholera Before You Travel
If you are planning a trip to Africa, Asia, or any destination where cholera and other waterborne diseases are a concern, it helps to prepare in advance. Our pharmacists can give you travel hygiene advice, recommend suitable vaccinations, and guide you on the best ways to stay safe. Book your appointment to speak to our pharmacists at Anna Pharmacy today.