Traveller's Diarrhoea: How to Prevent and Treat It

Traveller's diarrhoea, also known as “turista,” is a common condition that affects people travelling to regions where sanitary conditions differ from those they are used to. As a family physician and medical director of French origin who completed my studies and practised in France before settling in Quebec, I would like to share some tips for understanding, preventing, and treating this condition so that your travels remain enjoyable.

What is Traveller's Diarrhoea?

Traveller's diarrhoea is a gastrointestinal condition primarily caused by the consumption of food or water contaminated by bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Typical symptoms include frequent and watery stools, abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes fever.

Causes and Risk Factors

The main causes of traveller's diarrhoea are:

• Bacteria: Bacteria such as Escherichia coli (E. coli), Campylobacter, Salmonella, and Shigella are the most frequent culprits.

• Viruses: Noroviruses and rotaviruses can also cause symptoms.

• Parasites: Parasites such as Giardia lamblia can be a cause, although less frequently.

Risk factors include:

• Travelling to regions where sanitary conditions are poor.

• Consumption of untreated water or undercooked food.

• Insufficient personal hygiene.

Prevention

Prevention is the best weapon against traveller's diarrhoea. Here are a few tips to reduce the risks:

1. Drink bottled water: Always drink sealed bottled water. Avoid ice cubes in drinks as they may be made with contaminated water.

2. Avoid raw foods: Avoid consuming raw fruits and vegetables unless you can peel them yourself. Prioritise well-cooked foods.

3. Hand hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser.

4. Eat at reputable places: Choose restaurants and food stalls that appear clean and where hygiene standards are respected.

5. Cholera vaccine: An oral cholera vaccine, such as Dukoral, can be used to prevent certain causes of traveller's diarrhoea. This vaccine protects against Vibrio cholerae, the bacterium responsible for cholera, and partially against toxins produced by certain strains of enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC), one of the main causes of traveller's diarrhoea. It is recommended to consult your doctor to evaluate the relevance of this vaccine based on your destination and health status.

Treatment

If, despite all precautions, you develop traveller's diarrhoea, here are some steps to manage the situation:

1. Hydration: Dehydration is the primary concern. Drink plenty of bottled water, oral rehydration solutions (available at pharmacies), or isotonic drinks.

2. Rest: Rest and avoid intense physical activities.

3. Medication: Anti-diarrheals such as loperamide can be used to reduce symptoms, but do not use them if you have a fever or blood in your stools. Antibiotics may be necessary in some severe cases; consult a doctor for an appropriate prescription.

4. Probiotics: Probiotics can help restore normal intestinal flora.

When to Consult a Doctor?

It is important to consult a doctor if:

• Symptoms persist for more than a few days.

• You have a high fever or bloody stools.

• You show signs of severe dehydration (dry mouth, dark urine, extreme fatigue).

By following these tips, you can minimise the risks of traveller's diarrhoea and fully enjoy your adventures abroad. Stay vigilant and take care of your health while travelling.

Need Advice or a Medical Consultation?

If you have questions or need a medical consultation, do not hesitate to contact us. Our team of doctors at Allodocteur.ca is here to help, whether for prevention advice before your departure or for treatment if you fall ill during your trip. Book an appointment online for a home doctor visit or a virtual consultation. Safe travels and take care of yourself!