Cholera is caused by poor sanitation, and the germs can get into water.
Cholera germs can also go directly from our poo into our mouths, if we do not wash our hands and use soap. People with cholera get sudden attacks of diarrhoea and vomiting, which quickly leaves the body without enough fluid. Untreated cholera can result in severe dehydration. Anyone with signs of cholera must go to a clinic, hospital or doctor immediately. Severe cases, which are not treated quickly, can result in death within a few hours.