Cholera vaccine
Cholera is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food and water. It can cause severe watery diarrhoea, although mild infections are common. The risk for most travellers is low.
- Course
- 2 doses
- Price per dose
- £75
- Start at least
- 3 weeks before
Your course, dose by dose
Day 0
First dose at your consultation
1 to 6 weeks later
Completes the course
Fly
Protected before you travel
Typical schedule shown. Your pharmacist confirms yours, and some courses can be speeded up.
Who it’s for
- Humanitarian aid workers.
- Travellers going to areas with a cholera outbreak who will have limited access to safe water and medical care.
- Others for whom it may be helpful because of their work, activities or health problems.
Schedule
- Course
- A drink, not an injection. Adults and children over 6: two doses, 1 to 6 weeks apart. Children aged 2 to 6: three doses.
- When to have it
- Finish the course at least a week before travel.
- How long it lasts
- About 2 years for adults and children over 6.
- How to take it
- No food or drink for an hour before and an hour after each dose.
Good to know
- Food, water and hand hygiene remain the main protection.
Often advised for trips to
Common questions
How do I take the cholera vaccine?+
It is a drink, not an injection. You mix it with water and avoid food and drink for an hour before and after each dose. Finish the course at least a week before you travel.
How many doses of the Cholera vaccine do I need?+
The usual course is 2 doses (Day 0, 1 to 6 weeks later). Your pharmacist confirms the right schedule for you, and some courses can be speeded up if you are travelling soon.
How long before travel should I have the Cholera vaccine?+
Start at least 3 weeks before you travel so the course is complete and has time to work. If you are leaving sooner, call us on 01249 892813.
How much does the Cholera vaccine cost?+
£75 per dose, so £150 for the full course. Your consultation is included.
Do I need a GP referral?+
No. Book directly with us and bring details of any medicines you take and vaccines you have had before.
Can children have it?+
Many travel vaccines can be given to children. Minimum ages vary, and your pharmacist will check at the appointment.
Clinical content by Lyneham Pharmacy and Travel Clinic (GPhC registered pharmacy 9010716).