What are the most common causes of traveler's diarrhea and how can I protect myself from it?
October 22, 2023 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Ralf Kock
Dear Doctor,
My name is Jürgen Kock and I am reaching out to you because I am planning a trip to a tropical country soon and I am concerned about the possibility of getting traveler's diarrhea. I have heard that traveler's diarrhea is a common illness among travelers in tropical countries and I would like to learn more about how I can protect myself from it.
I am a healthy 45-year-old man who exercises regularly and follows a balanced diet. I have no known medical conditions and do not take any medication. My trip is scheduled to begin in two weeks and I will be staying in a tropical country for a total of three weeks.
My concerns stem from hearing that traveler's diarrhea can be very unpleasant and can cause severe symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, and nausea. I definitely want to avoid getting traveler's diarrhea during my trip as I would like to enjoy my time there and be active.
Therefore, I would like to know from you what the most common causes of traveler's diarrhea are and what measures I can take to protect myself from it. Are there specific foods I should avoid? What hygiene practices can I follow to minimize the risk of traveler's diarrhea? Are there any medications I can take preventatively?
I thank you in advance for your assistance and look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Jürgen Kock
Dear Jürgen Kock,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding protection against traveler's diarrhea during your stay in a tropical country. It is understandable that you are concerned, as traveler's diarrhea is a common illness among travelers in tropical countries. I will now explain to you in detail the most common causes of traveler's diarrhea and possible prevention measures.
Traveler's diarrhea is usually caused by consuming contaminated water or food. Bacteria, viruses, or parasites can be present in food or drinks and lead to diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and nausea. The most common pathogens causing traveler's diarrhea include E. coli, Salmonella, Shigella, Campylobacter, and Norovirus.
To protect yourself from traveler's diarrhea, it is important to pay attention to the selection of food and drinks. Avoid raw or undercooked foods such as salads, raw vegetables, unfiltered water, and ice cubes. Eat only well-cooked meat and peel fruits and vegetables to minimize the risk of contamination.
Hygiene measures also play an important role in protecting against traveler's diarrhea. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the toilet. Avoid contact with animals and insects, as they can also transmit pathogens.
There are also medications that can be used for the prevention of traveler's diarrhea. Antibiotics such as Rifaximin or Azithromycin can be taken before the trip in consultation with a doctor to reduce the risk of infection. Probiotics containing good bacteria can also help strengthen the intestinal flora and reduce the risk of traveler's diarrhea.
It is advisable to consult a doctor before your trip to receive individual recommendations for preventing traveler's diarrhea. Inform your doctor about your travel plans so that they can advise you accordingly.
I hope this information helps you prepare optimally for your trip and minimize the risk of traveler's diarrhea. Enjoy your time in the tropical country and stay healthy!
Best regards,
Ralf Kock
