An infection called cholera can result in extremely severe diarrhoea. Although it is not present in the UK, there is a very small chance that travellers to select regions of the world could contract it. A cholera vaccine is available, but because the risk to the majority of travellers is so low, it is only advised in certain circumstances. Keep reading to find out more about getting a free cholera vaccine in Glenrothes.
Cholera symptoms
Most cholera victims have only mild to moderate symptoms if any at all.
Cholera symptoms may include:
– Abrupt onset of diarrhoea
– Nausea and vomiting
– Moderate to serious dehydration
The signs and symptoms of cholera-related dehydration, which is frequently severe, include:
– Fatigue
– Low mood
– Moodiness
– Sunken eyes
– Dry mouth
– Dry, flaky skin
– Severe thirst
– Decreased urination
– An unsteady heartbeat
– Reduced blood pressure
Your blood may lose minerals as a result of dehydration, which may lead to an electrolyte imbalance.
Severe muscle cramps are an electrolyte imbalance’s first sign. Shock can eventually result from an electrolyte imbalance.
Who is at risk of contracting cholera?
People who travel to cholera-endemic countries, which are nations where outbreaks of the disease are known to occur, run the risk of contracting the disease. If you travel to locations where cholera is prevalent or if you work in unsanitary conditions, your risk of catching the disease is even higher.
You may contract cholera from:
– Drinking dirty water
– Consuming food—especially shellfish—that has been exposed to contaminated water
– Eating food that has been in contact with an infectious person
It is extremely unlikely that you may contract it while travelling.
Cholera primarily occurs in regions of Africa and Asia without access to a modern sewage system or clean water supply.
We also offer Typhoid vaccination; you can learn more here:
How to avoid cholera while travelling
You can avoid getting sick while travelling through cholera-endemic areas by practising good hygiene.
– Regularly wash your hands with soap and water, especially after using the restroom and before preparing or eating food.
– Only drink boiled or bottled water.
– Brush your teeth with bottled or boiled water.
Cholera treatment
The following are typical cholera treatments:
– Oral rehydration salts (a combination of salts with water for oral use)
– Rehydration by intravenous (IV) fluids
– Antibiotics and zinc supplements
These procedures hydrate the body by increasing its fluid content. They also assist in shortening the duration of your diarrhoea.
Does everyone need the cholera vaccine?
Typically, the vaccine is only necessary if one of the following applies:
– You’ll be visiting isolated areas without access to healthcare while visiting a region where cholera is frequent
– You’ll be providing aid or disaster relief in a region where a cholera outbreak might occur
The shot is administered as a drink. Two doses for adults, spaced one to six weeks apart, can offer up to two years of protection.
At a minimum, a week must pass after receiving both doses before travelling.
When to see a doctor and get cholera vaccine in Glenrothes
You should seek medical assistance if you’ve visited a cholera-endemic area and you have:
– Severe vomiting and watery diarrhoea
– Signs of dehydration, for instance, feeling thirsty or passing urine that is dark yellow and pungent
If you have recently been to a region where cholera is present, let the doctor know.
Is the cholera vaccine in Glenrothes free?
Free cholera vaccinations are available when you book with us. It is offered without charge since, should you carry this sickness home from your vacation, you could endanger the health of the UK population, which is predominantly unvaccinated.
Although only your GP practice can offer the vaccine without charge, not all practices offer travel services. It is advised that you schedule an appointment 8 weeks in advance.
When should the cholera vaccine be given?
Your doctor might advise receiving the vaccine if you are an adult (18–64 years old) travelling to a region where cholera cases are on the rise. The cholera vaccination is not 100% effective against cholera and does not offer protection against other water- or food-borne illnesses.
Side effects of the cholera vaccine
The oral cholera vaccination is safe and effective and adverse reactions are uncommon. Since the cholera vaccine is inactivated, it cannot spread the illness.
The following are typically the only adverse reactions:
– Nausea and Vomiting
– Abdominal aching
– Diarrhoea or loose stools
These side effects normally go away in a few days.
Book your appointment with Cadham Pharmacy today to get your cholera vaccine and other travel vaccinations.
This blog post was written on behalf of Cadham Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.
