Cholera in Cameroon Is Improving

As of 10 October 2019, a total of 667 cases and 32 deaths were reported in the North and Far North region. To date, the outbreak has affected nine out of 15 health districts in the North (Bibémi, Figuil, Garoua I, Garoua II, Gashiga, Golombe, Ngong, Pitoa, Tcholliré) and 6 out of 30 health districts (Kaélé, Kar Hay, Moutourwa, Guidiguis, Maroua 1 et Maroua 2) in the Far North.

Advice

All travellers can minimize the risk of exposure to this disease. Strictly observe all food and water precautions in any area where there is cholera. If gastrointestinal symptoms (e.g., vomiting and profuse watery diarrhoea) develop while visiting the affected area, travellers should seek medical care at once.

The U.K. National Travel Health Network and Centre recommends the oral cholera vaccine for some travellers whose activities or medical history put them at increased risk when travelling to areas of active cholera transmission. There is an increased risk of acquiring cholera for aid workers; for those going to areas of cholera outbreaks who have limited access to potable water and medical care; and for travellers for whom vaccination would be considered potentially beneficial, e.g., persons with chronic medical conditions.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the cholera vaccine for travellers who are 18-64 years of age and who plan to travel to areas of active cholera transmission. CDC notes that most travellers do not travel to areas of active cholera transmission and that safe food and water practices can prevent many cholera infections.