At Mendus Pharmacy Travel Clinic, we regularly see people preparing for overseas work or volunteering placements in countries where the risk of infectious disease is higher than at home. Whether you’re heading off to teach in a rural community, assist with disaster relief, or support a development project, your personal health and safety are just as important as the work you’re doing.
One vaccine that’s often overlooked—but can be vital—is the cholera vaccine. Many travellers assume cholera is a thing of the past, or only a concern for extreme conditions, but in reality, cholera remains a significant health risk in many parts of the world, especially for those travelling to areas with limited sanitation or clean water access.
Here’s what you need to know before you go.
What Is Cholera?
Cholera is a bacterial infection caused by Vibrio cholerae, typically spread through contaminated food or water. It causes severe diarrhoea and dehydration, which can become life-threatening if not treated quickly. In high-risk regions, outbreaks can happen suddenly and spread rapidly, particularly in refugee camps, rural villages, or areas affected by natural disasters or conflict.
While healthy individuals may recover with oral rehydration and antibiotics, prevention is far better than treatment—especially when healthcare access is limited abroad.
Who Is at Risk?
Anyone travelling to a region with poor sanitation is at risk, but certain travellers face higher exposure, including:
- Aid workers and NGO staff
- Medical volunteers and missionaries
- Teachers or development workers in rural settings
- Students on gap years or study placements
- Long-term or repeat travellers to high-risk countries
- Individuals visiting friends and relatives in endemic areas
Even short-term visitors can be exposed—one contaminated meal or drink can be enough to cause infection. That’s why it’s important not to dismiss the risk based on your destination and the duration of your trip.
Where Is Cholera a Concern?
Cholera is most prevalent in parts of:
- Sub-Saharan Africa
- South and Southeast Asia
- Central America and the Caribbean
- The Middle East (especially during conflict or crisis)
If you’re unsure whether your destination is high-risk, visit Mendus Pharmacy for a pre-travel consultation—we’ll assess your itinerary and advise on any required or recommended vaccinations.
The Cholera Vaccine: What You Need to Know
The cholera vaccine used in the UK is an oral vaccine called Dukoral. It’s taken as a drink in two doses, one to six weeks apart, and provides protection for up to two years in adults.
Key facts:
- It’s suitable for adults and children over 2 years old
- The course should be completed at least one week before travel
- A single booster dose is required after two years for continued protection
- It also offers some short-term protection against E. coli (traveller’s diarrhoea)
The vaccine is not available on the NHS, but it can be accessed privately at Mendus Pharmacy. Our team can supply and administer the full course, along with any other travel vaccines you may need for your destination.
Don’t Just Rely on the Vaccine
While the cholera vaccine offers excellent protection, it should always be used alongside basic hygiene and food safety precautions. We recommend:
- Drinking bottled or purified water only
- Avoiding ice in drinks (unless you’re sure it’s made from safe water)
- Eating food that is thoroughly cooked and served hot
- Avoiding raw or undercooked seafood
- Washing hands frequently with soap or using alcohol gel
Taking these simple steps dramatically reduces your chances of contracting cholera or other gastrointestinal illnesses while abroad.
Mendus Pharmacy: Your Trusted Travel Health Partner
If you’re planning to work, volunteer, or travel long-term abroad, book a travel consultation with our experienced team at Mendus Pharmacy. We’ll review your itinerary, vaccination history, and individual health needs to recommend a personalised vaccination schedule—including the cholera vaccine if appropriate.
We offer:
- Fast and flexible appointments
- Expert travel health advice
- A full range of travel vaccinations
- Antimalarial prescriptions and travel first aid kits
Even if your trip is only a few weeks long, your risk may still be significant—especially if you’re travelling to rural or remote areas. Don’t leave your health to chance.
Book Your Cholera Vaccine Today
If you’re travelling for work or volunteering abroad, make sure your health is fully protected. The cholera vaccine is a simple but powerful way to reduce your risk and ensure you can focus on your mission—not illness.
Visit Mendus Pharmacy today to book your travel consultation and get all the protection you need, under one roof.