Cholvax

Indications

Oral Cholera Vaccine is taken by mouth to help protect against cholera, a severe diarrhoeal disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It is used for people living in or travelling to areas where cholera is common, during outbreaks, and in public health vaccination campaigns. It is usually suitable from 1 year of age.

How It Works

The vaccine contains killed (inactivated) cholera bacteria of the main disease-causing types. When swallowed, they train the immune system in the gut to make antibodies, so that if the person is later exposed to live cholera bacteria, the body can fight them off before serious illness develops. It cannot cause cholera.

Dosage and Administration

The vaccine is given by a health worker or at a vaccination centre. The usual schedule is 2 oral doses given at least 2 weeks apart, following the schedule set by the doctor or national health programme; a booster may be advised later for people who remain at risk. Avoid eating or drinking for about 1 hour before and after each dose unless told otherwise.

Interactions

Medicines that weaken the immune system, such as high-dose steroids or chemotherapy, may reduce the response to the vaccine. Tell the health worker about any recent vaccines or medicines.

Contraindications

• Severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or to any ingredient
• Acute illness with fever or acute stomach upset or diarrhoea at the time of vaccination: the dose is usually delayed until recovery

Side Effects

• Mild stomach pain, nausea, loose stools or vomiting
• Headache, mild fever or tiredness

Get urgent medical help if signs of a severe allergic reaction (hives, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing) appear after the dose, or if severe watery diarrhoea or dehydration develops at any time.

Pregnancy and Lactation

As a killed vaccine, it is not expected to harm the unborn baby or a breastfed infant. It may be given during pregnancy and breastfeeding when the risk of cholera is high, after discussion with a health professional.

Precautions and Warnings

• The vaccine does not give full protection; continue to drink safe water, eat well-cooked food and wash hands with soap.
• People with weak immune systems may have a weaker response.
• Protection starts about 1 week after the second dose.
• Seek treatment with oral rehydration solution and medical care for any severe diarrhoea.

Overdose

An extra dose is unlikely to cause harm beyond mild stomach upset. Inform the health worker.

Therapeutic Class

Vaccine (inactivated oral cholera vaccine).

Storage

Store as directed on the pack, in a refrigerator at 2 to 8°C; do not freeze. Keep out of the reach of children.