Dukoral (Cholera & Traveller's Diarrhea)
Dukoral is an oral vaccine that protects against cholera and provides partial cross-protection against the most common cause of traveller's diarrhea (ETEC). Widely used by Canadian travellers to Mexico, the Caribbean, and developing countries.
What it protects against
Vibrio cholerae and (cross-protection) enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) — the most common cause of traveller's diarrhea.
Who should get it
- •Travellers to Mexico, Caribbean, Central/South America
- •Adventurous eaters
- •Travellers with history of severe GI illness
- •All-inclusive resort travellers wanting extra protection
Not recommended for
- •Severe allergy to formalin or vaccine component
- •Acute gastrointestinal illness
Destinations where Dukoral (Cholera & Traveller's Diarrhea) is recommended
Side effects & safety
- Occasional mild GI upset
- Very safe
Key facts
- 1Single most popular travel vaccine for Canadian all-inclusive travellers
- 2Taken with a buffer solution — must be on empty stomach
- 3Booster every 3 months for continued ETEC protection
Need the dukoral (cholera & traveller's diarrhea) for your trip?
Book a virtual consultation with a licensed Canadian physician. We'll review your itinerary, issue the prescription, and administer the vaccine at our Toronto pharmacy.
Book your consultationFrequently asked: Dukoral (Cholera & Traveller's Diarrhea)
Does Dukoral really prevent traveller's diarrhea?
Dukoral gives roughly 60–70% cross-protection against ETEC, which causes the majority of traveller's diarrhea cases. It is not complete protection but reduces both risk and severity.
Related reading
How to Actually Prevent Traveler's Diarrhea: What Works, What Doesn't, and What to Pack
The classic 'boil it, cook it, peel it, or forget it' advice sounds great — but research shows most travelers can't follow it, and those who do still get sick. Here's what actually prevents traveler's diarrhea based on the evidence.
Traveler's DiarrheaTraveler's Diarrhea: The Travel Health Problem Nobody Wants to Talk About
Traveler's diarrhea strikes up to half of all visitors to developing countries, making it the single most common travel health problem. Even luxury hotels won't protect you. Here's what actually works — and what doesn't.
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This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace an individual medical consultation. Recommendations vary based on your health history, destination, and planned activities. A consultation with our licensed physician is required before any prescription or vaccine is issued.