CHOLERA

Risk:

Cholera cases have been reported from most of the countries of Central Africa. The risk of infection to the U. S. traveler is low, especially those that are following the usual tourist itineraries and staying in standard accommodations. Travelers should consider the vaccine if they have stomach ulcers, use anti-acid therapy, or if they will be living in less than sanitary conditions in areas of high cholera activity.

Prevention:

Travelers to cholera infected areas should follow the standard food and water precautions of eating only thoroughly cooked food, peeling their own fruit, and drinking either boiled water, bottled carbonated water, or bottled carbonated soft drinks. Persons with severe cases respond well to simple fluid and electrolyte-replacement therapy, but medical attention must be sought quickly when cholera is suspected. The available vaccine is only 50% effective in reducing the illness, and is not recommended routinely for travelers.