Cholera Outbreak in South Africa: Symptoms, Prevention, and Treatment

This page provides general cholera information. It is not a live outbreak alert. For current South African notices, check the National Institute for Communicable Diseases and your local health authority.

What is cholera?

Cholera is an infection transmitted through food or water contaminated with Vibrio cholerae bacteria. It can cause severe watery diarrhoea and rapid dehydration.

Symptoms need prompt attention

Seek urgent medical care for severe diarrhoea or signs of dehydration. Prompt oral rehydration is important; severe cases require treatment in a health facility. Bottled water alone is not a substitute for treatment.

Reducing the risk

Safe drinking water, sanitation, handwashing and hygienic food preparation help prevent transmission. Follow local instructions for treating and storing water. Vaccination may form part of the public-health response.

Where to find reliable updates

Consult NICD and local health officials for outbreak notices and local advice. Read the WHO cholera fact sheet for background, prevention and treatment information.