Cholera is a bacterial infection spread through contaminated food or water. It can cause acute watery diarrhoea and rapid fluid loss. Not every episode of diarrhoea is cholera, and symptoms alone cannot confirm the infection. Seek care quickly for sudden watery diarrhoea, especially during an outbreak. Severe diarrhoea, confusion, difficulty staying awake or very little urine requires immediate assessment: do not wait for all warning signs to appear. If the person is awake and able to drink, oral rehydration solution can help replace losses while care is arranged. Follow a recognised product's instructions and seek professional advice; do not improvise mixing ratios or delay referral. Safe water, sanitation and handwashing support prevention.