Cholera
Cholera causes severe watery diarrhoea and rapid dehydration. It is a medical emergency but highly treatable with oral rehydration solution.
Always confirm diagnosis and treatment with a qualified health professional.
Compiled from public health references including the CDC, Mayo Clinic, WebMD, the World Health Organization, and the Tanzania Ministry of Health.
Overview
Cholera is caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, typically through contaminated water. Outbreaks occur regularly in Tanzania, especially near Lake Victoria (Mwanza, Kagera) and in areas with inadequate sanitation. Death can occur within hours without treatment, primarily from dehydration.
Common Symptoms
- Sudden onset of profuse, watery diarrhoea ("rice-water stools")
- Vomiting
- Rapid dehydration: sunken eyes, dry mouth, reduced urination
- Muscle cramps
- In severe cases: shock and loss of consciousness
Treatment
- Immediately: Oral rehydration solution (ORS) — available free at all health facilities and many pharmacies
- Severe cases: IV fluids and antibiotics (doxycycline or azithromycin) in hospital
- Most people recover fully within 1–3 days with prompt rehydration
- Notify the local health authority — cholera is a notifiable disease
Prevention
- Drink only boiled or treated water
- Wash hands with soap before eating and after using the toilet
- Avoid raw or undercooked seafood
- Dispose of faeces safely — use latrines
- Oral cholera vaccine available for high-risk areas
Cost & NHIF Coverage
Public facilities: Treatment is free during declared outbreaks — cholera treatment centres are set up specifically for this and do not charge.
NHIF: Not typically needed given free outbreak-response treatment, but covers related care at accredited facilities outside outbreak response.
Private facilities: If treated privately, IV rehydration and antibiotics can cost TZS 50,000–200,000+ depending on severity — public cholera treatment centres are strongly preferred during an outbreak.
Estimated ranges — actual cost varies by facility. Confirm with reception and check your insurer's coverage before treatment.
Where to Get Care
Confirm with reception that the facility treats this condition and that your insurer is accepted before visiting.