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Cholera Vaccination

Cholera, a potentially life-threatening bacterial infection caused by Vibrio cholerae, is primarily transmitted through contaminated water and food. It remains a significant public health challenge in regions with poor sanitation and limited access to clean water. The cholera vaccine offers a critical line of defence against this disease.

What You Need to Know

two doses required | from £45 per dose

Cholera is an infection that can cause severe diarrhoea. It's not found in the UK, but there's a very small risk of getting it while travelling in some parts of the world.

Available in DMB Chemist & Tower Pharmacy

  • The cholera vaccine is recommended for individuals traveling to or living in areas where cholera is endemic or where outbreaks occur. Key regions include:

    • Parts of Africa: Including Nigeria, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Somalia.

    • South Asia: Particularly India, Bangladesh, and Nepal.

    • Southeast Asia: Including countries like Cambodia and Vietnam.

    • Haiti and the Dominican Republic: Due to recent outbreaks and ongoing risk.

    • Yemen: Amidst the severe humanitarian crisis and cholera outbreaks.

  • Travelling to High-Risk Areas
    Travellers to regions with endemic cholera or recent outbreaks should consider vaccination to reduce their risk of infection.

    Live in Endemic Areas
    Residents of areas where cholera is common may benefit from vaccination, especially during outbreaks or if access to clean water is limited.

    Work in High-Risk Situations
    Healthcare workers, aid workers, and others involved in emergency response in cholera-prone areas should consider vaccination to protect themselves.

    Increased Risk Due to Medical Conditions
    Individuals with conditions that might lower their immunity or those who are particularly vulnerable to dehydration may also consider vaccination.

  • Increased Risk of Infection
    Without vaccination, individuals are more susceptible to contracting cholera, especially in high-risk areas. Symptoms include severe diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration, which can be fatal if untreated.

    Severe Dehydration and Complications
    Cholera can cause rapid and severe dehydration, leading to shock and, in severe cases, death if not promptly treated with rehydration solutions.

    Potential for Outbreaks
    In communities with low vaccination rates, cholera can spread rapidly, leading to larger outbreaks and greater public health challenges.

  • Oral Cholera Vaccines (OCV)
    There are two main types of oral cholera vaccines available: Dukoral and Shanchol/Euvichol-Plus.

    Dukoral
    Requires two doses for adults and children over 6 years old, given 1-6 weeks apart. For children 2-6 years old, three doses are required, spaced 1-6 weeks apart.

    Shanchol/Euvichol-Plus
    Requires two doses, given at least two weeks apart, for individuals over 1 year of age. These vaccines provide longer-term protection.

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