Symptoms of cholera can begin as soon as a few hours or as long as five days after infection. Often, symptoms are mild. But sometimes they are very serious. About one in 20 people infected have severe watery diarrhea accompanied by vomiting, which can quickly lead to dehydration. Although many infected people may have minimal or no symptoms, they can still contribute to spread of the infection.
Signs and symptoms of dehydration include:
Rapid heart rateLoss of skin elasticity (the ability to return to original position quickly if pinched)Dry mucous membranes, including the inside of the mouth, throat, nose, and eyelidsLow blood pressureThirstMuscle cramps
If not treated, dehydration can lead to shock and death in a matter of hours.
