Travel vaccine
Cholera Vaccine
Cholera is a bacterial infection caught from water or food contaminated with the bacteria. It can cause severe, dehydrating diarrhoea, but the risk to most travellers is low. An oral vaccine is recommended for higher-risk trips, such as aid work or travel to areas with poor sanitation or outbreaks.
Key facts
Who it's for
Aid and disaster-relief workers, and travel to areas with outbreaks or poor sanitation
Vaccination course
Oral — 2 doses for adults (1–6 weeks apart); 3 doses for children aged 2–6
Minimum age
From 2 years
Protection
About 2 years (children 2–6: about 6 months)
When to have it
Complete the course at least 1 week before travel
How it spreads
Contaminated water and food
What is Cholera?
Cholera is caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, spread through the faecal–oral route — usually by drinking water or eating food contaminated with the bacteria. It is closely linked to poor sanitation, unsafe water and crowded conditions, and outbreaks often follow floods, natural disasters or in refugee settings.
Many infections are mild, but cholera can cause sudden, profuse watery diarrhoea leading to rapid dehydration that needs urgent treatment. The risk to ordinary tourists staying in good accommodation is low, so the oral vaccine is reserved for travellers whose plans put them at higher risk.
Risk areas
Cholera occurs in parts of Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Central and South America, particularly where access to clean water and sanitation is limited. Outbreaks are more likely after flooding or natural disasters and in crowded settings such as refugee or relief camps.
Risk for travellers
The risk to most holidaymakers staying in good-quality accommodation is very low. It is higher for aid and disaster-relief workers, healthcare staff, those visiting friends and relatives in affected areas, and travellers to remote places with limited clean water, especially during an outbreak. Vaccination is recommended for these higher-risk groups, alongside strict food and water hygiene.
What are the symptoms of Cholera?
- Sudden, profuse watery diarrhoea
- Vomiting
- Leg cramps
- Rapid dehydration — thirst, dry mouth, reduced urination
- Tiredness and weakness
- Many cases are mild or cause no symptoms
How does the Cholera Vaccine work?
The cholera vaccine is taken by mouth rather than by injection. Adults and children aged 6 and over usually have two doses given between one and six weeks apart, completed at least a week before travel; children aged 2 to 6 need three doses. It offers protection for around two years and gives some limited, shorter-lived protection against one common cause of travellers' diarrhoea. We'll advise whether it's right for your trip at your appointment.
Book your appointment for Cholera Vaccine right now.
Who should have the cholera vaccine?
Cholera vaccination is not needed for most holidays. It is recommended for travellers at higher risk, including those who are:
- Working in aid, disaster relief or healthcare in affected areas
- Travelling to places experiencing a cholera outbreak
- Visiting remote areas with limited access to clean water and medical care
- At increased risk of severe illness, for example due to certain medical conditions
The vaccination course
The vaccine is given as a drink. Adults and children aged 6 and over have two doses, taken between one and six weeks apart, and should finish at least a week before travel. Children aged 2 to 6 need three doses.
Protection lasts about two years in adults, after which a booster can be given if you remain at risk. We'll confirm the schedule that fits your travel dates at your appointment.
Possible side effects
The oral cholera vaccine is well tolerated. Any side effects are usually mild:
- Mild tummy upset, such as cramps or nausea
- Occasional loose stools
- Headache
- Serious reactions are very rare
Beyond the vaccine: food and water hygiene
Safe eating and drinking is the most important protection against cholera and other stomach infections:
- Drink only bottled, boiled or properly treated water and avoid ice of unknown origin
- Eat food that is freshly cooked and served piping hot
- Avoid raw shellfish, salads and peeled fruit prepared by others
- Wash your hands well before eating and after using the toilet, and carry rehydration sachets
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
By destination
Where we recommend the Cholera Vaccine
Travelling somewhere specific? This vaccine is commonly advised for these destinations — open any guide for the full travel-health picture.
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