What are the dangers of not being vaccinated against cholera when traveling abroad?
Not being vaccinated against cholera when traveling to high-risk areas can result in a severe and potentially life-threatening illness. Cholera is a highly contagious waterborne disease caused by the Vibrio cholerae bacteria. The disease spreads rapidly in areas with poor sanitation and limited access to clean water, leading to outbreaks that can affect large populations. Travelers who are not vaccinated are at an increased risk of contracting the disease and spreading it to others.
How is cholera transmitted, and what are the symptoms?
Cholera is spread through contaminated food and water. When a person consumes contaminated food or water, the bacteria multiply in the intestines, causing symptoms such as severe diarrhoea, vomiting, and dehydration. The symptoms usually appear within a few hours to a few days of exposure and can range from mild to severe. In severe cases, dehydration can lead to kidney failure, shock, and even death.
