Cholera is a serious bacterial infection of the small intestine caused by Vibrio cholerae. It is spread through contaminated water and food and is especially common in areas that may not have good sanitation, such as Africa and the Far East.

Symptoms of cholera include nausea, muscle cramps, and vomiting and diarrhea that lead to severe dehydration. Treatment includes replacing lost fluids to treat dehydration. People who are traveling to areas where cholera is active may be advised to get a cholera vaccination to reduce their risk of getting the infection.