Cholera Vaccination

With 250+ travel clinics nationwide, Passport Health is your local leading provider of travel vaccinations and medications. Prepare your health for travel, visit us before you go.

What Is Cholera?

Cholera is a bacterial infection found in food or water sources contaminated with feces (poop). Between 3 and 5 million cases and over 100,000 deaths occur every year.

Symptoms of cholera usually appear after two to three days and include:

• Profuse, watery diarrhea


• Vomiting


• Leg cramps


• Rapid fluid loss


• Dehydration


• Shock

Cholera-related death is rare, but it is known to occur.

What Is The Cholera Vaccine?

The cholera vaccine is the best line of defense against cholera infection. It provides at least six months protection against cholera after a single dose.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved a cholera vaccine in 2016. But, other cholera immunizations are awaiting approval. We will provide updates as they become available.

Do I Need A Cholera Vaccine?

You may need a cholera vaccine, depending on the particulars of your trip. Cholera generally spreads through contaminated food or water. Contamination is usually caused by faulty sewage systems or contact with infected water.

Travelers to the Caribbean, Africa and/or Southeast Asia should consider receiving the cholera vaccine.

For more information on affected countries, see our Which Countries Have Cholera? section below.

Where Can I Get The Cholera Vaccine?

The United States approved a cholera vaccine for use in June of 2016. This vaccine should be available by October of 2016. Passport Health will have the vaccine available for clients at all 250+ locations. Call or book your Passport Health appointment online today.

Which Countries Have Cholera Infections?

Cholera is most common in regions without adequate treatment of sewage or drinking water. The following countries reported recent or ongoing cholera outbreaks:

• Afghanistan


• Bangladesh


• Cameroon


• Chad


• Cuba


• Democratic Republic of the Congo


• Dominican Republic


• Ghana


• Guinea-Bissau


• Haiti


• India


• Nepal


• Niger


• Nigeria


• Papua New Guinea


• Philippines


• Sierra Leone


• South Sudan


• Tanzania


• Yemen

The majority of cholera cases occur in the developing world. Studies suggest infection rates could be 30 times higher in some regions. The CDC indicates this is primarily due to travelers returning with the disease.

How Can I Prevent Cholera?

Vaccination is the best way to prevent cholera. The CDC also recommends the following methods:

• Drink only bottled, boiled or treated water or other beverages


• Wash your hands with soap and clean water


• Only brush your teeth with clean water


• Eat hot, cooked foods or packaged items

If you or a member of your party contract cholera, seek medical help immediately. Products like oral rehydration salts or DiaResQ may help treat symptoms.

Are you planning a trip to a region with cholera? Are you unsure if your destination has the disease? Contact a Passport Health travel health specialist to learn what you can do to stay safe. Call or book online today and start your journey with protection and peace of mind.