Cholera vaccine

Cholera vaccines are vaccines that are effective at preventing cholera. They are about 85% effective during the first six months and 50–60% effective during the first year. The effectiveness decreases to less than 50% after two years. When a significant portion of the population is immunized benefits from herd immunity may occur among those not immunized. The World Health Organization recommends their use in combination with other measures among those at high risk. Two doses or three doses of the oral form are typically recommended. An injectable form is available in some, but not all, areas of the world.

Both of the available types of oral vaccine are generally safe. Mild abdominal pain or diarrhea may occur. They are safe in pregnancy and in those with poor immune function. They are licensed for use in more than 60 countries. It use in countries where the disease is common appears to be cost effective.

The first vaccines used against cholera were developed in the late 1800s. They were the first widely used vaccine that was made in a laboratory. Oral vaccines were first introduced in the 1990s. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines, the most important medication needed in a basic health system. The cost to immunize against cholera is between 0.1 and 4.0 USD.