Cholera is a bacterial infection that can cause severe diarrhea and dehydration. The disease is caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, which is typically spread through contaminated water or food. While cholera can be life-threatening, there are several steps that can be taken to prevent infection. Here are 6 tips on how to prevent it (including what travel vaccines are effective in its prevention):

• Clean water: One of the most effective ways to prevent cholera is to ensure that the water supply is clean and safe. This can be achieved through a variety of methods, including water treatment with chlorine or other disinfectants, boiling water, or using water filtration systems. In areas where clean water is not available, bottled water or water treated with chlorine tablets can be used.

• Sanitation: Proper sanitation is also key to preventing cholera. This includes using toilets or latrines instead of open defecation, washing hands regularly with soap and water, and disposing of waste properly. In areas where sanitation facilities are limited, hand sanitizer can be used as an alternative to soap and water.

• Food safety: Cholera can also be spread through contaminated food, so it is important to practice good food safety measures. This includes washing hands before handling food, cooking food thoroughly, and avoiding raw or undercooked seafood, which can be a common source of infection.

• Vaccination: Vaccination can be an effective way to prevent cholera in high-risk areas. The cholera vaccine is typically administered in two doses, given two weeks apart. It is recommended that individuals receive the vaccine at least one week before travel to a high-risk area. Clari Health carries the Cholera vaccine and you can get it at all of Clari Health’s traveler’s health clinics: Clari Health Bellevue, Clari Health Seattle clinics and Clari Health Singapore.

• Travel precautions: Individuals traveling to areas with a high risk of cholera should take additional precautions to prevent infection. This includes avoiding street food and other potentially contaminated food sources, and drinking only bottled or treated water. It is also important to be aware of local outbreaks and to follow any additional guidelines or recommendations from health officials.

• Early detection and treatment: Early detection and treatment of cholera can be critical in preventing the spread of the disease. Individuals who experience symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, or dehydration should seek medical attention immediately.

It is important to note that while cholera can be prevented, there is always a risk of infection in areas with poor sanitation or limited access to clean water. Individuals traveling to high-risk areas should take all necessary precautions to protect themselves from infection and should be aware of the signs and symptoms of cholera.