How to Prevent Traveler's Diarrhea

Traveler's diarrhea can occur:

• During or after visiting places without consistent access to clean water and sanitation practices, including parts of Asia, Africa, Mexico, and Central and South America.
• If you eat or drink something that contains harmful bacteria, viruses, or parasites.

We do not recommend taking a prescription with you or taking antibiotics beforehand, since it can result in serious side effects and antibiotic resistance.

Traveler's diarrhea usually goes away on its own in a few days.  If it does not go away or you have any serious symptoms, such as dizziness, fever, or blood in your stool, reach out.

During travel to resource-limited areas, know what you can and cannot eat or drink to prevent traveler's diarrhea.

You can eat/drink:

• Bottled water or water that has been boiled or purified
• Foods that have been cooked well and are served hot
• Foods that are prepared in a reputable restaurant
• Fruits/vegetables that you peel yourself just before eating
• If you drink alcoholic beverages, drink from a single-serving bottle (avoid mixed drinks)

You should avoid:

• Food from street vendors
• Raw, unpeeled fruits or vegetables (like apples, berries, salads, etc.)
• Tap water, including drinking water, ice, and water used for toothbrushing
• Unpasteurized dairy products

Hand hygiene:

• Wash your hands with soap and water before eating or preparing food, and after going to the bathroom.
• Avoid touching your mouth, nose, or eyes without washing your hands.
• Avoid touching clearly dirty surfaces, if possible.
• If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Supplements and medications:

• Take probiotics 2 billion CFU daily to prevent diarrhea.  This may not work, but taking this is low risk.
• Some people take bismuth salicylate or Pepto Bismol to prevent diarrhea.  If you're interested in this, reach out to discuss if this would be a good choice for you.