Cholera in Ethiopia - Additional Information

Cholera cases continue to be reported in Ethiopia. By December 2019, a total of 2,089 cholera cases and 21 deaths had been reported across the country. The highest number of cases have been reported from Oromia, Afar, Somali, Amhara, and Addis Ababa city.

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 the 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.