Dukoral is an oral vaccine used to protect people against developing cholera, a severe gastrointestinal infection cause by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, which may be present in contaminated food or water 3. As of 2010, Dukoral is not approved for use in the United States, but is administered in other countries such as Canada 3. Before receiving this vaccine, people should be aware Dukoral side effects 23.

Diarrhea or Upset Stomach

After taking Dukoral, people may develop diarrhea as a side effect of treatment, the European Medicines Agency reports 13. Diarrhea results in frequent bowel movements that yield runny or watery stools. People who experience diarrhea may also develop additional upset stomach side effects including abdominal bloating or gas, stomach pain, nausea or vomiting. Additionally, certain people may notice that their stomach produces audible gurgling or gaseous noises. These side effects of Dukoral are temporary and will progressively subside within a few days of treatment 23.

Headache

Headache pain may occur in certain people after receiving this oral vaccine, according to Sanofi Pasteur, the pharmaceutical distributor of Dukoral 3. Head pain is uncomfortable and may cause patients to have problems concentrating or focusing during daily tasks, such as work or school. People who develop bothersome headache pain can manage this side effect by taking an over-the-counter analgesic medication, such as paracetamol or acetaminophen.

Flu-like Symptoms

Additional flu-like side effects may develop in people following treatment with Dukoral 23. These side effects may include fever, cough, dizziness or diminished appetite, NetDoctor warns 2. A fever may also cause chills, sweating, flushing or weakness, and may exacerbate headache side effects. If these side effects occur, affected people should seek care from a doctor as flu-like symptoms may also be signs of alternate medical problems, such as infection.