A vaccination is available to protect against cholera when travelling, although most people won't need it because food and water hygiene precautions are usually enough to prevent infection.
Vaccination is usually only recommended for travellers to areas where cholera is widespread, particularly for aid workers and people who are likely to have limited access to medical services.
During the consultation we can discuss the need for the Cholera vaccine based on your origin of travel and planned activities.
The vaccine
Cholera vaccine is available from 2 years onwards, it is either two or three doses depending on the age of the patient. Children between two and six years of age need three doses, and this lasts six months before a booster is needed. For adults, and children over six years of age, two doses of the vaccine is given and protection can last two years before a booster is needed.
The full course should ideally be completed at least one week prior to travel, with doses taken between one and six weeks after the first dose.
The vaccine is taken in liquid form as a drink, with water being added to the vaccine ingredients. For this reason, it is recommended that you should avoid eating, drinking or taking oral medication for an hour before and after the vaccination.