Chronicle Editor
These vaccines contain weakened or killed cholera bacteria strains that cannot cause the disease themselves.
When these bacteria enter the body through the mouth, they stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies. These antibodies specifically target the cholera toxin, a key factor in causing the severe diarrhoea and dehydration associated with cholera. When a vaccinated person ingests the actual cholera bacteria, the pre-existing antibodies bind to the toxin, preventing it from attaching to intestinal cells and causing damage.
Two doses of OCVs typically provide protection for three to five years, after which the antibody levels wane and booster doses may be required.
Bongani Ndlovu