Cholera myths busted: 7 common misconceptions and what you need to know

From misconceptions about transmission to treatment, here are 7 cholera myths — and the facts that can save lives. (Image: Pexels)

Cholera has returned to the global stage, with 31 countries experiencing outbreaks so far this year, more than 400,000 people affected and close to 5,000 deaths, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The situation is now considered “very high risk,” the agency warns, and could become a crisis if it is not addressed urgently.

What is driving the surge is a lethal combination of conflict, poverty and climate change, which creates preconditions that are perfectly tuned to allow incubation and spread of cholera by disrupting access to clean water and sanitation. Floods, displacement and fragile health care systems make containment even more difficult. Among the hardest hit countries are Chad, Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Sudan and Republic of Congo, where families are facing a preventable disease that can kill within hours if untreated.

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If there is good knowledge and the population is made aware of the disease, it is fully preventable and can be treated well, but cholera, which is centuries old, is taking lives because of wrong information and myths and this delays prompt treatment, explains Dr Arvind Menon, Infectious Disease Specialist, Global Health Institute, Mumbai.

“Individuals underestimate the disease, misperceive how it is transmitted, or use ineffective treatments, exacerbating the crisis. To change the trajectory, it is important to debunk myths and make sure communities have accurate information,” the doctor says.

Below is a look at 7 of the most persistent myths about cholera — and the antidotes that can save lives.

Myth 1: Cholera Is a Disease of bygone days

Fact: Cholera remains a grave threat to public health. According to the WHO, in 2025 alone, 31 countries are reporting sustained public circulation of the cholera bacteria, showing it is a long way from being eliminated.

Myth 2: Cholera Can be Contracted from the Air

Fact: Cholera is waterborne, transmitted through water or food that has been contaminated — not air. Prevention requires clean water and hygiene.

Myth 3: Cholera is a Disease of the Poor

Fact: While being poor increases the risk, anyone exposed to contaminated water is at risk, including travellers.

Myth 4: Cholera Is Always Fatal

Fact: In the absence of proper treatment, cholera can be deadly within a few hours, but lives are saved in most cases by oral rehydration salts (ORS) and fluids.

Myth 5: Antibiotics Are the Only Solution

Fact: Rehydration is the central and most important remedy. Antibiotics are not necessary, except in severe cases and under medical guidance.

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Myth 6: Home Remedies Are Just as Good as Medical Attention

Fact: Herbal or home remedies are an alternative to ORS or medical care. It is frequently accompanied by severe dehydration and is fatal if treatment is delayed.

Myth 7: Cholera Can’t Be Contained

Fact: Cholera is preventable through access to safe water, adequate sanitation, use of oral cholera vaccines, and timely response to cholera outbreaks.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.