Quick answer
Cholera is an acute diarrhoeal infection linked to contaminated food or water. Severe cases can cause rapid dehydration, so watery diarrhoea should be taken seriously.
Seek urgent care for severe diarrhoea, dehydration, weakness, sunken eyes, inability to drink, reduced urination, or symptoms in children, pregnancy, or older adults.
Prevention steps
Drink boiled, treated, or safely packaged water.
Wash hands with soap, especially after toilet use and before food preparation.
Eat food that is cooked and served hot.
Dispose of faeces safely and keep toilets/latrines clean.
Why it matters in Nigeria
Cholera risk rises where clean water, sanitation, and hygiene are disrupted. During community outbreaks, follow official NCDC/state health guidance and do not rely on home remedies for severe dehydration.
Related: Typhoid vs malaria, Lassa fever vs malaria.