Traveler's Diarrhea

What is traveler's diarrhea?

Traveler's diarrhea is a term used to describe the diarrhea caused by infection with bacteria, protozoa, or viruses ingested by consuming food or water that has been contaminated. Two life-threatening types of traveler's diarrhea are caused by cholera and giardiasis.

What are the causes of traveler's diarrhea?

Traveler's diarrhea describes a specific condition that happens when visitors from countries that have good public sanitation and hygiene travel to countries that have poor public sanitation and hygiene. These are often the developing countries, including those located in Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America.

Traveler's diarrhea is caused by drinking water or eating foods contaminated with fecal material.

What are the symptoms of traveler's diarrhea?

A normal course of traveler's diarrhea lasts about 3 to 7 days, and may be accompanied by:

nausea
bloating
urgency
fatigue
loose, watery stools

Can traveler's diarrhea be prevented?

The best preventives for traveler's diarrhea are:

only use water that has been boiled or chemically disinfected for:
- drinking, or preparing beverages such as tea or coffee
- brushing teeth
- washing face and hands
- washing fruits and vegetables
- washing eating utensils and food preparation equipment
- washing the surfaces of tins, cans, and bottles that contain food or beverages
do not eat food or drink beverages from unknown sources
any raw food could be contaminated, including:
- fruits, vegetables, salad greens
- unpasteurized milk and milk products
- raw meat
- shellfish
- any fish caught in tropical reefs rather than the open ocean

Although antibiotics, antimicrobial drugs, antidiarrheals, as well as other over-the-counter medications are sometimes used as preventives, the Centers for Disease Control does not recommend their use without the specific advice and supervision of a physician. Taking any medication without medical supervision can be dangerous. In addition to side effects or allergic reactions, long-term use of medications can mask symptoms that may need medical attention.

Treatment for traveler's diarrhea:

Traveler's diarrhea, although uncomfortable and unpleasant, usually lasts only a few days. Dehydration (loss of fluids) can be a serious side effect, especially for children and babies. Drinking plenty of non-contaminated fluids is important.

For diarrhea that is worse than normal or lasts more than three days, it is best for the traveler to consult a physician rather than try self-medication - especially for pregnant women and children. Seek medical help when diarrhea is: