Your one stop Vaccination Clinic

Cholera Vaccine

Cholera Vaccine

We provide a full range of travel vaccinations and medication

Cholera

Cholera is an acute diarrhoeal illness. It is caused by ingesting Vibrio Cholerae. It presents as a sudden onset of water diarrhoea. Introduction into the bowel occurs via ingestion of faecally contaminated water or shellfish or other foods. Cholera is common in poverty stricken countries where there is bad sanitation and poor access to drinking water

Vaccination Pricing

Dukoral – £45 Per dose / £90 Per Course
Vaxchora – £85 Per Course

Signs & Symptoms

Cholera can be mild or occur without symptoms in healthy individuals.

Symptoms include:

  • Sudden onset of watery diarrhoea

  • Nausea

  • Vomiting

  • Dehydration

  • Shock in severe cases

  • Death occurs in 50% of those untreated with severe complications

Evans Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01684 575 216

Email: malverntravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

malverntravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

231 Worcester Road, Malvern, WR14 1SU

Claines Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01905 453 703

Email: worcestertravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

worcesterravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

153 Ombersley Road, Worcester, WR3 7BX

The Vaccination – Dukoral Vaccine

Ages (Years) Doses Required Schedule Time before travel Boost required at
2-6 3 at least one week apart Last dose up to day before* 6 months
6-85 2 at least one week apart Last dose up to day before* 2 years

The Vaccination – Vaxchora Vaccine

Ages (Years) Doses Required Schedule Time before travel Boost required at
22-85 1 single dose 10 days before –

*Vaccines work best if given time to become active. This vaccine can be given up to the day before travel and will provide some cover.

Cholera is an acute diarrhoeal disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, typically contracted through contaminated food or water. It is most prevalent in regions with inadequate sanitation, poor water treatment, or limited access to safe drinking water. Cholera can cause sudden and severe watery diarrhoea, which, if left untreated, can rapidly lead to dehydration and even death. While the illness is rare in countries with good sanitation infrastructure, it remains a major public health concern in parts of Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, particularly during natural disasters or humanitarian crises where clean water and sanitation may be compromised. Prompt treatment and preventive measures are critical to controlling its spread.

Cholera spreads primarily through the consumption of water or food contaminated with the faeces of an infected person. Shellfish, raw vegetables, and street food washed in unsafe water are common sources of infection in endemic areas. The disease does not usually spread directly from person to person, making environmental hygiene a key factor in prevention. Preventive strategies include drinking bottled or properly treated water, avoiding ice in drinks, eating only thoroughly cooked foods, and practising meticulous hand hygiene. Travellers to high-risk regions can reduce their chances of infection by following food and water safety precautions and, in some cases, receiving a cholera vaccination prior to travel.

Symptoms of cholera can begin within hours to five days after exposure and range from mild to severe. The hallmark symptom is profuse, watery diarrhoea often described as “rice water” in appearance, accompanied by vomiting, rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, and extreme thirst. These symptoms can result in rapid fluid and electrolyte loss, leading to severe dehydration, muscle cramps, and shock if not treated quickly. In severe cases, cholera can be fatal within hours. However, about 80% of infections are mild or asymptomatic, meaning individuals can carry and spread the bacteria without being aware. Rapid diagnosis and immediate treatment are vital for recovery.

The oral cholera vaccine provides moderate protection against the disease and is recommended for travellers visiting high-risk areas. The most commonly used vaccine in the UK is Dukoral, which is taken in two doses for adults and children over 6 years old, or three doses for younger children aged 2 to 6. Protection begins roughly one week after completing the course and lasts for up to two years in adults, and six months in children aged 2 to 6. A booster dose is recommended if ongoing exposure is likely. While the vaccine reduces the risk of illness, it does not guarantee full immunity, so hygiene and food safety practices remain essential.

The cholera vaccine is recommended for travellers going to areas where cholera outbreaks are occurring or where there is a high risk of infection due to poor sanitation and limited access to clean water. This includes parts of sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and certain regions of the Middle East, particularly during floods or humanitarian emergencies. Countries such as Bangladesh, Yemen, Haiti, and some parts of India and Ethiopia have experienced recent outbreaks. The vaccine may also be advised for aid workers, healthcare professionals, or individuals working in refugee camps or areas with limited infrastructure. It is not routinely recommended for short-term tourists unless there is a specific risk.

The cholera vaccine is generally safe and well tolerated. The most common side effects are mild and include stomach discomfort, nausea, or diarrhoea. These effects are usually temporary and resolve within a day or two. Some people may also experience headache or tiredness. Serious allergic reactions are extremely rare. Since the vaccine is taken orally as a drink, it avoids injection-related side effects like arm pain or swelling. As with all vaccines, individuals should inform their healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions or allergies before receiving it. Although the vaccine adds a layer of protection, it should be used in conjunction with strict hygiene and food safety practices to ensure maximum effectiveness.

Use the map below to identify areas of risk for travel.

Simply call the clinic of your choice or send us an email enquiry, and our travel specialists will get back to you as soon as possible.

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The Malvern Travel Clinic offers a wide range of vaccines and travel vaccinations.

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Competitive Pricing

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