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Stay Safe: Preventing Travelers' Diarrhea Before It Starts
Published: Oct 02, 2023
Travelers' diarrhea can put a damper on your vacation. Learn how to prevent this common travel ailment with simple strategies.
Food and Drink Safety
Always choose food that is hot and freshly cooked. Opt for fruits you can peel yourself to avoid surface contamination. Drink bottled or purified water, avoiding ice that may be made from unsafe water.
Purifying Water
In areas without bottled water, purify tap water by boiling for three minutes or using purification tablets. This kills bacteria and makes it safe to drink. Portable filters with iodine can also be effective for travelers.
Role of Prophylactic Measures
Antibiotics should not be used routinely as a preventative due to risks and resistance. Instead, focus on safe food and drink practices to minimize your risk of illness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Boil for three minutes or use purification tablets.
No, they are not recommended for prevention.
Bottled or purified drinks are safe; avoid ice.
Peel fruits yourself to avoid contamination.
The Bottom Line
Prudent choices can keep travelers' diarrhea at bay and save your trip.
References
- Riddle MS, Connor BA, Beeching NJ, et al. Guidelines for the prevention and treatment of travelers' diarrhea. J Travel Med 2017; 24:S57.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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