Travel vaccine
Cholera Vaccine
The cholera vaccine protects against cholera, a serious diarrhoeal illness from contaminated water, and is recommended for some travellers to higher-risk areas.
What it protects against
It protects against cholera, a bacterial infection caught from contaminated water or food that can cause severe watery diarrhoea and rapid, dangerous dehydration.
Who it's for
Travellers to areas with cholera outbreaks or poor sanitation, particularly aid and relief workers or those going to remote areas with limited access to clean water and medical care.
How it works
It is a drink taken by mouth in two or more doses, containing inactivated bacteria, which prompts protection in the gut.
Safety
Safety and side effects
It is safe and well tolerated, with occasional mild tummy upset. Protection is not complete, so safe food and water practices remain essential when travelling.
Education and reference only. This is general information, not a personal recommendation, and does not list doses — follow the current NHS schedule and your clinician's advice. Seek urgent help for signs of a serious allergic reaction after any vaccine.
Answers
Cholera Vaccine: frequently asked questions
Do most travellers need the cholera vaccine?
No. The risk to most travellers is low, and careful food and water hygiene is the main protection. The vaccine is mainly for higher-risk travellers such as aid workers or those going to outbreak areas.
How is the cholera vaccine given?
It is taken as a drink by mouth in two doses (or three for young children), completed at least a week before travel. A travel clinic can arrange the schedule.
Related
Other travel vaccines
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Vaccinations
- UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) — the Green Book
- WHO — immunization
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