Understand the risk
The disease and how it spreads
An oral vaccine considered for travellers heading to areas with a current cholera outbreak, or with limited access to medical care and poor sanitation.
The relevant exposure routes and level of risk depend on the disease, destination and activities planned. Your pharmacist will explain the risks that apply to your itinerary during consultation.
You can read more about travel vaccinations on the NHS website.
Individual assessment
Who may consider Cholera vaccination
- Aid and relief workers heading to affected areas
- Travellers to regions with an active cholera outbreak
- Those travelling to remote areas with very limited access to medical care
Suitability is assessed during consultation. Tell the pharmacist about allergies, pregnancy, health conditions, medicines and previous vaccinations.
Plan ahead
Course, timing and safety
How it is given
Taken as an oral drink. Adults and children aged 6 and over have two doses at least a week apart. Children aged 2 to 5 have three doses.
Course timing
Course should be completed at least a week before travel.
Common side effects
- Mild stomach upset
- Nausea
Most side effects are mild and short-lived. Your pharmacist will explain what to expect and when to seek medical help.
Common questions
Cholera FAQs
No — it's not routinely recommended for most holidaymakers, but may be considered for travel to areas with an active outbreak or very limited healthcare access. Your pharmacist will discuss whether it's relevant to your trip.
It offers some short-term protection against certain strains of travellers' diarrhoea-causing bacteria, though it isn't a substitute for food and water hygiene.