Cholera

Cholera Vaccine Across Nottingham, Leicester, Derby and Mansfield

Cholera – what you need to know:

Cholera is a potentially fatal bacterial infection of the bowel caused by Vibrio Cholera. It occurs in areas of poor sanitation but does not present as a high risk if certain precautions are taken, such as avoidance of potentially contaminated food and water sources.

In Central and South America, Africa, and Asia it is estimated that 3-5 million people are affected every year.

The bacterial infection has an incubation period of 6 – 72 hours. The infection may result in mild to extreme diarrhoea and vomiting. This can result in extreme dehydration and the effects can last from 1 – 7 days. Fever is not usually present.

Treatment usually consists of Antibiotics and fluid replacement.

Cholera is vaccine-preventable, with the cholera vaccine offering up to 90% protection against the disease for a 2-year period. We recommend a course of two which is administered orally.

Where are the risk areas?

Areas of risk include:

• Sub-Saharan Africa
• South Asia
• Central and South America

How old to you have to be to have the vaccine?

The vaccine can be given to those aged 2 years and over.

How long does immunity last for?

Immunity lasts for 2 years.

 

Click here for our vaccination price list.

Patient information leaflet: http://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/PIL.31265.latest.pdf