HOW TO PREVENT TRAVELLERS DIARRHEA?

OVERVIEW OF TIPS AND TRICKS

• Keep Hydrated: Ensure you stay well-hydrated throughout your journey.
• Make Smart Food Choices: Be selective about the food you consume.
• Sun Exposure: Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.
• Hygiene: Maintain excellent personal hygiene practices.
• Consider the Traveler’s Diarrhea Vaccine.
• Pack Antibiotics: Prepare a supply of antibiotics for your trip.

We’ll provide a more in-depth explanation of each recommendation below, empowering you to prepare effectively and minimize the risk of traveler’s diarrhea.

TRAVELLER’S DIARRHEA SYMPTOMS

The most common signs and symptoms of traveller’s diarrhea are: 

• Abrupt onset of three loose stools in 24 hours
• An urgent need to defecate
• Abdominal cramps
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fever

STAY HYDRATED DURING YOUR TRIP

• Avoid drinking untreated water or ice.
• Opt for bottled beverages with the cap sealed.
• Consume hot beverages prepared with boiled water, such as tea, coffee, and broth.
• Refrain from drinking juices or cocktails made with untreated water or ice.
• Exercise caution in places claiming to have a water filtration system; it may be contaminated or malfunctioning.
• Steer clear of overly sweet liquids, as they can induce or exacerbate diarrhea.
• Limit alcohol intake, as it can contribute to dehydration and irritate your digestive system.

MAKE THE RIGHT FOOD CHOICES

• Avoid spicy foods, especially if you do not usually eat them.

• Eat food that has been well cooked and is still hot.

• Make sure pasteurized dairy products are kept cool at all times.

• Avoid eating fruits and vegetables that do not require peeling or with damaged skin. They may have been rinsed with contaminated water or handled with unwashed hands.

• Be cautious with fish, seafood and mayonnaise. Avoid raw or undercooked meat and fish, as well as shellfish.

• If you eat at a buffet, arrive early to eat freshly prepared foods. Avoid food that has been sitting for a long time or is served at room temperature.

• Do not buy food from street vendors.

BE CAREFUL WHEN EXPOSED TO THE SUN

Limit the time you spend in the sun, especially between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.

• Wear light, protective clothing and a wide-brim hat.

• Spend as much time in the shade as possible.

MAINTAIN A GOOD HYGIENE

Whenever possible, utilize bottled or treated water when brushing your teeth.

• Take care not to allow water into your mouth or nose when showering or swimming in freshwater.

• Regularly and meticulously wash your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Do so after using the restroom, prior to meals, before going to bed, and following contact with an ill individual or an animal.

SPEAK WITH YOUR PHARMACIST

Your pharmacist is a good resource to help you make the most out of your trip and avoid traveller’s diarrhea. Here are some subjects to discuss with him or her:

Using Probiotics: Taking probiotics, such as atoma®, CulturelleTM, or FlorastorTM, while traveling can potentially reduce the risk of traveler’s diarrhea. Your pharmacist can assess whether this is a suitable option for you.

Traveller’s Diarrhea Vaccine: There is an oral vaccine available that can lower the risk of contracting traveler’s diarrhea. However, it’s important to note that this vaccine does not replace the necessity of making careful food choices and practicing frequent handwashing. It’s not universally recommended but could be beneficial for certain travelers. Consult your pharmacist to determine if this vaccine is appropriate for you and your specific destination.

Anti-Diarrhea Medications: Discuss with your pharmacist the possibility of carrying a “just-in-case” set of antibiotics, which would require a prescription. Having these antibiotics on hand can be a prudent precaution, particularly when traveling to areas with limited access to healthcare. It’s important to understand that taking the antibiotics before you become ill will not prevent you from getting traveler’s diarrhea.

After your trip, if you have any unused antibiotics, be sure to return them to the pharmacy for proper disposal.

Traveler’s diarrhea is a common condition that can affect travelers. Your pharmacist can assist you not only with traveler’s diarrhea but also provide various travel tips and review your medications before your departure.