Worcester Travel Clinic provide a Cholera vaccination service

Your one stop Vaccination Clinic

Cholera Vaccine

We provide a full range of travel vaccinations and medication

Cholera

Cholera is an acute diarrhoeal illness. It is caused by ingesting Vibrio Cholerae. It presents as a sudden onset of water diarrhoea. Introduction into the bowel occurs via ingestion of faecally contaminated water or shellfish or other foods. Cholera is common in poverty stricken countries where there is bad sanitation and poor access to drinking water

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Vaccination Pricing

Dukoral – £45 Per dose / £90 Per Course
Vaxchora – £85 Per Course

Signs & Symptoms

Cholera can be mild or occur without symptoms in healthy individuals.

Symptoms include:

Sudden onset of watery diarrhoea
Nausea
Vomiting
Dehydration
Shock in severe cases
Death occurs in 50% of those untreated with severe complications

Claines Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01905 453 703

Email: worcestertravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

Claines Pharmacy 153 Ombersley Rd, Worcester, WR3 7BX

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Evans Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01684 575 216

Email: malverntravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

Evans Pharmacy 231 Worcester Rd, Malvern, WR14 1SU

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The Vaccination – Dukoral Vaccine

Ages (Years)	Doses Required	Schedule	Time before travel	Boost required at
2-6	3	at least one week apart	Last dose up to day before*	6 months
6-85	2	at least one week apart	Last dose up to day before*	2 years

The Vaccination – Vaxchora Vaccine

Ages (Years)	Doses Required	Schedule	Time before travel	Boost required at
22-85	1	single dose	10 days before	–

*Vaccines work best if given time to become active. This vaccine can be given up to the day before travel and will provide some cover.

What is Cholera?

Cholera is a serious bacterial infection caused by Vibrio cholerae, which affects the intestines and can lead to rapid dehydration. It is considered a waterborne disease and is most commonly found in areas with poor sanitation, unsafe drinking water, and inadequate sewage treatment. Cholera is rare in the UK and other developed countries but poses a significant health risk in certain parts of Africa, Asia, and Central and South America. While it can be life-threatening if untreated, cholera is easily preventable and treatable with proper care. In severe cases, it can cause death within hours due to the rapid loss of fluids and electrolytes.

How does it spread and how to prevent it?

Cholera spreads through the ingestion of food or water contaminated with faeces containing the Vibrio cholerae bacteria. It is most often contracted by consuming unclean water, raw or undercooked seafood, or food handled in unsanitary conditions. The disease can also spread via direct contact with contaminated surfaces or infected individuals in areas with poor hygiene practices. Prevention focuses on maintaining strict personal hygiene, drinking safe, treated or bottled water, and eating properly cooked food. Travellers can reduce risk by avoiding tap water, ice, uncooked fruit and vegetables unless they can peel them themselves, and ensuring food is freshly prepared and served hot. Vaccination offers additional protection for those travelling to high-risk regions.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of cholera usually develop within two to five days of exposure but can appear within a few hours. The most common symptom is sudden onset of profuse, watery diarrhoea, often described as “rice water” stools. This is usually accompanied by vomiting, muscle cramps, and rapid dehydration. Severe cases may result in shock, kidney failure, and, if untreated, death. Milder infections may cause only mild diarrhoea or go unnoticed. Dehydration is the most dangerous complication, especially in young children and older adults, and can progress rapidly without prompt fluid replacement.

How long does the vaccine last?

The oral cholera vaccine used in the UK, known as Dukoral, provides protection for up to two years in adults and children over six years of age after two doses, taken one to six weeks apart. For children aged two to six, a three-dose course is recommended, offering protection for up to six months. A booster dose is required if ongoing protection is needed after these periods. While the vaccine does not offer 100% immunity, it significantly reduces the risk of severe illness and is most effective when combined with good hygiene and food safety practices.

Countries I need the vaccine for

The cholera vaccine is recommended for travellers visiting areas where there are current cholera outbreaks or where access to clean water and sanitation is limited. This includes parts of sub-Saharan Africa, South and Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Central America. It is particularly advised for aid workers, healthcare professionals, or those staying in remote areas with poor infrastructure. Some countries may also require proof of cholera vaccination for entry under specific circumstances, although this is rare.

Vaccine side effects

The oral cholera vaccine is generally safe and well-tolerated. Common side effects are usually mild and short-lived, including abdominal discomfort, nausea, diarrhoea, and headache. Some people may also experience a mild fever or tiredness following the vaccine. Serious side effects or allergic reactions are extremely rare. As with any vaccine, individuals with weakened immune systems, chronic illnesses, or a history of allergies should consult a healthcare professional before receiving the cholera vaccine to ensure it is suitable for them.