Planning an exciting trip abroad? Whether you’re backpacking through Southeast Asia, heading on safari in Africa, or volunteering in a rural area of Central America, protecting your health should be part of your travel checklist. One question we often get asked at Home Ground Pharmacy in Swindon is: “Do I need the cholera vaccine for my holiday?”

The answer depends on where you’re going, how long you’re staying, and the nature of your trip. In this post, we’ll break down who the vaccine is for, how it works, and why it might be a smart addition to your travel plans.

What Is Cholera?

Cholera is a bacterial infection caused by Vibrio cholerae. It spreads through contaminated food or water, especially in areas with poor sanitation. The symptoms can be severe, including sudden, profuse watery diarrhoea, vomiting, and dehydration. Left untreated, it can lead to serious complications or even death—particularly in vulnerable individuals.

While cholera is rare in UK residents, it remains a risk for international travellers visiting parts of the world where access to clean water and sanitation is limited.

Where Is Cholera a Risk?

The cholera vaccine is most commonly recommended for travel to the following regions:

• –> Parts of Africa, such as Nigeria, Ethiopia, Mozambique, and the Democratic Republic of Congo

• –> South and Southeast Asia, including India, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Thailand

• –> Areas of Central and South America, such as Haiti and parts of the Dominican Republic

• –> Refugee camps, disaster relief zones, and remote areas with limited medical facilities

Even if you’re visiting a country where cholera isn’t widespread, your personal risk may be higher if you plan to travel off the beaten track, stay in basic accommodation, or eat street food regularly.

Do All Travellers Need the Cholera Vaccine?

No, not everyone needs the cholera vaccine. The vaccine is typically recommended for:

• –> Aid workers or volunteers working in high-risk areas

• –> Backpackers or those travelling to rural areas with limited sanitation

• –> People visiting family and friends in endemic regions

• –> Travellers without guaranteed access to clean water and food

• –> Anyone with underlying health conditions that make infections more dangerous

If you’re staying in a high-end resort in a major city, your risk is likely to be very low. However, if you’re planning on exploring remote villages or taking long road journeys, it’s worth considering.

At Home Ground Pharmacy, we provide personal travel consultations to assess your specific needs and make vaccine recommendations tailored to your trip.

How Does the Cholera Vaccine Work?

The cholera vaccine used in the UK is an oral vaccine called Dukoral. It comes in two doses, taken one week apart. It works by stimulating the body’s immune system to recognise and fight the cholera bacteria.

You should complete the course at least one week before travel, meaning the whole process takes about two weeks. It’s suitable for adults and children aged two and above.

The vaccine provides protection for around two years in adults and six months in children under six. Boosters are available if you’re travelling again in future.

What Are the Side Effects?

The cholera vaccine is generally very well tolerated. Side effects are uncommon but may include:

• –> Mild gastrointestinal upset

• –> Headache

• –> Abdominal discomfort

• –> Tiredness

These usually resolve within a day or two. As it’s an oral vaccine, there’s no injection involved—something many travellers find reassuring.

Is the Cholera Vaccine Available on the NHS?

The cholera vaccine is only available on the NHS to people travelling to high-risk areas as part of official work, such as for the armed forces or international aid agencies.

For most holidaymakers, you’ll need to obtain it privately. At Home Ground Pharmacy in Swindon, we offer convenient appointments and professional travel health consultations, so you can get the protection you need without delay.

Reach out to us today to find out how you can make the most of our travel services.

Additional Tips to Prevent Cholera

Even with the cholera vaccine, good hygiene is essential. Follow these precautions while travelling:

• –> Drink bottled or properly purified water

• –> Avoid ice in drinks

• –> Eat freshly cooked food that’s served hot

• –> Avoid raw seafood and unpeeled fruit

• –> Wash hands frequently with soap or use hand sanitiser

Cholera prevention is about layering protection—vaccination, hygiene, and common sense.

Book Your Travel Consultation Today

If you’re still wondering “Do I need the cholera vaccine for my holiday?”, let us help you decide. At Home Ground Pharmacy, our experienced team can provide tailored travel health advice based on your itinerary, medical history, and personal preferences.

We offer:

• –> Expert travel health consultations

• –> Cholera vaccine (Dukoral) and a full range of travel vaccines

• –> Anti-malaria tablets and other essential travel medications

• –> Convenient booking and friendly, professional service

Don’t leave your health to chance—book your appointment with our travel clinic in Swindon today. We’ll help ensure you’re protected, prepared, and ready to enjoy your adventure.

This blog was written on behalf of Home Ground Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.