Cholera is an infection of the small intestine caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It causes a large amount of watery diarrhea.

Cholera is an acute illness characterized by watery diarrhea. The toxin released by the bacteria causes increased secretion of water and chloride ions in the intestine, which can produce massive diarrhea. Death can result from the severe dehydration brought on by the diarrhea.

Cholera occurs in epidemics when conditions of poor sanitation, crowding, war, and famine are present. Endemic areas include India, Asia, Africa, the Mediterranean, and more recently, South and Central America, and Mexico. The infection is acquired by ingesting contaminated food or water.

A type of vibrio bacteria also has been associated with shellfish, especially raw oysters. Risk factors include residence or travel in endemic areas and exposure to contaminated or untreated drinking water.

• Sudden onset of watery diarrhea
  • Stool looks like water with flecks of rice in it
  • Diarrhea has a "fishy" odor
• Rapid dehydration
• Rapid pulse (heart rate)
• Dry skin
• Dry mucous membranes or dry mouth
• Excessive thirst
• Glassy eyes or sunken eyes
• Lack of tears
• Lethargy
• Unusual sleepiness or tiredness
• Low urine output
• Sunken "soft spots" (fontanelles) in infants
• Abdominal cramps
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Note: Symptoms can vary from mild to severe.

Tests that may be done include:

• Blood culture
• Stool culture