Cholera is transmitted through bacterially contaminated water or food. It is an acute diarrhoeal disease that can often be fatal. After an infection with the causative bacterium Vibrio cholerae, the first symptoms usually appear within a few hours. Cholera is particularly widespread in Africa, the Caribbean and South-East Asia. Travellers can protect themselves relatively well with a cholera vaccination. The oral vaccination can provide protection for up to three years. Since the cholera vaccination does not provide one hundred percent protection, it is advisable to pay attention to hygiene when travelling.