Travel Health Update From On Call’s Chief Medical Officer: Cholera

Cholera Outbreak in Sudan: What Travelers Need to Know
With growing concerns around the recent Cholera outbreak in Sudan, many travelers are seeking clarity on what this disease means for their health and safety. Our Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Michelle Nathan, shares her expert insights on Cholera, how it spreads, and what travelers can do to stay protected. Whether traveling to the region for work or humanitarian reasons, understanding the basics of Cholera can help travelers take informed, preventative steps for safer and healthier travels.

What is Cholera?
Cholera is an acute diarrheal illness caused by Vibrio cholerae bacteria. It’s typically contracted by ingesting food or water contaminated with feces from an infected person. While some infected individuals show no symptoms, others can develop rapid-onset watery diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration—sometimes severe enough to be life-threatening if not treated quickly. The disease can escalate rapidly, especially in areas with limited access to clean water or healthcare.

How Does Cholera Spread?
Cholera spreads through the fecal-oral route—primarily by consuming contaminated water or food. The risk increases in settings with poor sanitation, limited clean water, and crowded living conditions (e.g., refugee camps or emergency shelters). Unlike diseases that spread from casual contact or through the air, Cholera transmission is preventable with proper hygiene and water precautions.

The incubation period is typically 2 hours to 5 days after exposure. People can transmit the bacteria in their stool for 1–10 days after infection—even if they’re asymptomatic.

How Can Travelers Prevent Cholera?
Preventing Cholera starts with water and food safety. Here’s what travelers can do:

• • Drink only bottled, boiled, or treated water. Avoid ice unless you’re sure it’s made from safe water.

  • Practice safe food habits: Eat food that is thoroughly cooked and served hot; avoid raw fruits and vegetables unless you can peel them yourself.

  • Wash hands frequently with soap and safe water, especially before eating or preparing food and after using the bathroom.

  • Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water aren’t available.

  • Avoid street food and food from questionable sources.

Is there a vaccine available?
While a Cholera vaccine is available, it is typically only recommended for travelers going to areas with active outbreaks or those at higher risk (e.g., humanitarian workers or those with limited access to medical care). If you’re unsure whether the vaccine is right for you or your travelers, consult with a travel health specialist.

If Assistance is Needed While Traveling
Travelers should seek medical care immediately if symptoms such as sudden, severe diarrhea or vomiting develop.

On Call’s travelers and clients can contact us 24/7 for help locating medical care, coordinating treatment, or coordinating an evacuation if needed. Contact us today to learn more.

About On Call International
When traveling, every problem is unique—a medical crisis, a political threat, or even something as common as a missed flight. But every solution starts with customized care that ensures travelers are safe and protected. That’s why for over 30 years, On Call International has provided fully-customized travel risk management and emergency assistance services, protecting millions of travelers, their families, and their organizations.
Visit www.oncallinternational.com and follow us on LinkedIn to learn more.