For many people, a holiday abroad is something to look forward to all year. However, nothing can disrupt a trip faster than traveller’s diarrhoea.
It is one of the most common health issues affecting international travellers, particularly those visiting parts of Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Central America, and South America.
While traveller’s diarrhoea is usually mild and resolves within a few days, it can be unpleasant, inconvenient, and occasionally serious. Understanding how to reduce your risk and what to do if symptoms develop can help you stay healthy and enjoy your trip.
What is traveller’s diarrhoea?
Traveller’s diarrhoea is a digestive infection that typically causes frequent loose or watery stools while travelling or shortly after returning home. It is most often caused by consuming food or water contaminated with bacteria, viruses, or parasites.
Common symptoms include:
- Frequent loose stools
- Stomach cramps
- Nausea
- Bloating
- Urgent need to use the toilet
- Mild fever
- Occasional vomiting
Symptoms usually begin within a few days of exposure and can last anywhere from 24 hours to a week.
Who is most at risk of traveller’s diarrhoea?
Anyone travelling abroad can develop traveller’s diarrhoea, but the risk tends to be higher when visiting destinations where sanitation standards, food handling practices, or water treatment systems differ from those in the UK.
Higher-risk travellers include:
- Young children
- Older adults
- Pregnant women
- People with weakened immune systems
- Individuals with existing digestive conditions
Even experienced travellers can be affected, so taking sensible precautions is always worthwhile.
How to prevent traveller’s diarrhoea
Although it is impossible to eliminate the risk entirely, a few simple habits can significantly reduce your chances of becoming ill.
Be careful with drinking water
In some destinations, tap water may contain organisms that can cause stomach infections.
Consider:
- Drinking bottled water from sealed containers
- Using bottled water when brushing your teeth
- Avoiding ice cubes unless you know they are made from safe water
- Choosing hot drinks made with boiled water
When bottled water is unavailable, water purification tablets or filters may be useful.
Choose food carefully
Food is one of the most common sources of infection.
As a general rule:
- Eat food that has been thoroughly cooked and served hot
- Avoid undercooked meat, seafood, and eggs
- Peel fruit yourself where possible
Avoid salads or raw vegetables that may have been washed in unsafe water
Be cautious with food from street vendors if hygiene standards appear questionable
Freshly prepared hot food is often safer than food that has been left sitting at room temperature.
Wash your hands regularly
Good hand hygiene remains one of the most effective ways to prevent illness.
Wash your hands:
- Before eating
- After using the toilet
- After handling money or public surfaces
If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser.
What travel health items should you pack?
A travel health kit can be invaluable if symptoms develop.
Consider packing:
- Oral rehydration salts
- Hand sanitiser
- Anti-diarrhoeal medication
- Thermometer
- Pain relief medication
- Any regular prescription medicines
Your pharmacist can advise which products may be appropriate for your destination and travel plans.
Treatment options for traveller’s diarrhoea
Most cases of traveller’s diarrhoea improve without medical treatment. The main priority is preventing dehydration.
Stay hydrated
Diarrhoea causes the body to lose fluids and electrolytes.
Drink plenty of:
- Bottled water
- Oral rehydration solutions
- Clear soups or broths
Young children and older adults can become dehydrated more quickly and may require closer monitoring.
Oral rehydration salts
Oral rehydration salts help replace the fluids and minerals lost during illness. They are especially useful if diarrhoea is severe or prolonged. Many travellers choose to carry sachets or tablets with them in case symptoms occur abroad.
Anti-diarrhoeal medicines
Certain over-the-counter medicines may help reduce symptoms and make travel more manageable, particularly during long journeys. However, these medicines are not suitable for everyone and should be used according to professional advice.
Antibiotics
Most cases do not require antibiotics. However, in some circumstances, a healthcare professional may recommend antibiotic treatment for more severe infections or for travellers visiting higher-risk destinations.
When should you seek medical help for diarrhoea?
Although traveller’s diarrhoea is usually mild, medical attention should be sought if you experience:
- Blood in your stools
- Persistent high fever
- Severe abdominal pain
- Signs of dehydration
- Symptoms lasting longer than a few days
- Repeated vomiting preventing fluid intake
Children, older adults, and people with underlying health conditions should seek advice sooner if symptoms are concerning.
Prepare before you travel
Understanding potential health risks at your destination can help you avoid illness and enjoy your trip with greater confidence.
A consultation at your local travel health clinic can provide personalised advice on vaccinations, malaria prevention where relevant, food and water safety, and travel medicines that may be useful during your journey.