DefinitionCholera is an infection of the small intestine that causes a large amount of watery diarrhea.Alternative NamesV. cholerae; VibrioCauses, incidence, and risk factorsCholera is caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. The bacteria releases a toxin that causes increased release of water in the intestines, which produces severe diarrhea.Cholera occurs in places with poor sanitation, crowding, war, and famine. Common locations for cholera include:AfricaAsiaIndiaMexicoSouth and Central AmericaPeople get the infection by eating or drinking contaminated food or water.A type of vibrio bacteria also has been associated with shellfish, especially raw oysters.Risk factors include:Exposure to contaminated or untreated drinking waterLiving in or traveling to areas where there is choleraSymptom