7 Facts About Cholera Cholera is an infectious bacterial disease that has killed thousands globally. It is usually contracted by drinking water contaminated with the bacteria Vibrio cholerae. The disease causes rapid dehydration by loss of bodily fluids, which can be deadly. People who have limited access to clean drinking water face the highest risk. There were more than 1.2 million cases of cholera in 2017 and more than 5,600 deaths in 34 countries. A cholera outbreak in Yemen accounted for 84% of all cases and 41% of deaths. The disease can be treated with oral hydration salts and the vaccines Dukoral, Shanchol and Euvichol.
