How to Avoid Traveler's Diarrhea
When visiting areas with poor sanitation, avoid traveler's diarrhea by taking extra precautions with water and food.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
-
-
1
Consider the following safe to drink: commercially bottled water with an unbroken seal, canned or bottled carbonated drinks, beverages made with vigorously boiled water, and wine and beer in their original containers.
-
2
Check seals on water bottles carefully; if the seal has been tampered with, the bottle may have been refilled with tap water.
-
3
Wipe off the lip of any bottle or can before drinking or pouring from it.
-
4
Consider nondisposable glasses and cups unsanitary; drink from original containers and use sanitary straws, or carry your own cups.
-
5
Boil untreated water to purify it. Use both a filter and iodine tablets if bottled or boiled water is not available.
-
6
Avoid ice, fruit juice and any drinks made with tap water, such as mixed drinks or lemonade.
-
7
Brush your teeth with bottled water, and make sure to rinse your toothbrush with bottled water. Try not to swallow water when taking a shower.
-
8
Avoid any foods that may be rinsed in water, including salads, raw fruits and raw vegetables. Also stay away from dairy products if there's a question about pasteurization.
-
9
Eat meat, poultry and fish only if they are well-cooked, and make sure that cooked food is served hot. Some fish from contaminated waters may be toxic even after cooking; if there is any doubt, do without.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Traveler's diarrhea, which is usually caused by consuming feces-contaminated water or food, may clear up by itself. But if it is very watery and lasts for several days, or if you are vomiting and have a fever, seek medical care; it may be a sign of a more serious infection.
If you choose to eat raw fruits and vegetables, peel them.
For boiling water, consider purchasing an immersion coil. If you are traveling to a foreign country, you may also need to purchase a plug adapter and current converter.
If you have any questions or concerns, contact a physician or other health care professional before engaging in any activity related to health and diet. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.
Related Searches
Comments
-
Dr. Jennifer Kerns
Mar 20, 2009
This is true -- also, many doctors will give yuo a prescription for cipro to be taken if you DO develop diarrhea that lasts more than a day or two, so ask your doc! 5* -
veryirie
Feb 15, 2009
Traveler's Diarrhea is the worst! Great tips for preventing this; thanks! -
cadosh
Feb 13, 2009
Great article, and good advice! (I RRCR you) -
gwen1673
Dec 09, 2008
Nice tips. And i've lost my appetite. -
gwen1673
Dec 09, 2008
Nice tips. And i've lost my appetite.