[Cholera, 1991--old enemy, new face]

The cholera epidemics of the XIXth century are described and reviewed. The extent, incidence and case-fatality rate for the disease in the seventh pandemic are described. The global epidemiological situation and its trend at the end of 1991 are analysed. A review of cholera epidemiology highlights the factors that might explain the less tragic nature of the disease today. The role of water, food and direct contagion in transmission of cholera over the last 20 years is considered in the light of recent studies and with special reference to the epidemic in Latin America, where the intense emotion aroused by the disease has prompted vigorous action that could produce significant and lasting progress in the health field.