Travel Precautions
To reduce the risk of contracting traveller’s diarrhoea, it is essential to take certain precautions, especially when visiting countries outside of Europe. Vaccinations against Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Polio (DTP) are strongly recommended. For travellers who frequently visit developing countries or plan to stay for extended periods, the Hepatitis B vaccine is also advisable. Additionally, those travelling to rural areas in developing regions should consider getting vaccinated against cholera. The oral cholera vaccine, Dukoral, is particularly beneficial as it not only protects against cholera but also reduces the risk of traveller’s diarrhoea caused by E. coli. Dukoral is administered in two doses, spaced one week apart, and can provide peace of mind, especially for those embarking on longer or more remote trips.
Signs and Symptoms
The symptoms of traveller’s diarrhoea can vary depending on the specific pathogen involved, but typically resolve within 72 hours. Common symptoms include loose bowel movements accompanied by one or more of the following:
- Fever
- Abdominal cramps
- Nausea
- Vomiting
However, there are certain warning signs that may indicate a more serious infection, necessitating medical attention. These include:
- Blood in the stools
- Mucus in the stools
If symptoms persist for more than three days, it is crucial to seek medical advice. The primary danger associated with diarrhoea is dehydration, which can become severe if not addressed promptly. Signs of dehydration include weakness, lethargy, dizziness, a dry mouth or tongue, and difficulty passing urine. If these symptoms occur, you should consult a healthcare professional immediately.
How to avoid
The pathogens that cause traveller’s diarrhoea are primarily spread through poor hygiene practices. Therefore, the best way to prevent this illness is by adhering to strict hygiene measures. Important steps include:
- Always wash your hands after using the toilet. In situations where soap and water are not available, carrying alcohol-based hand sanitiser is recommended as a backup.
- Wash your hands thoroughly before eating.
- Choose to eat only in establishments that appear clean and maintain high standards of hygiene.
- Avoid consuming fruits and vegetables that may have been washed in contaminated water.
By following these precautions, you can significantly reduce your risk of contracting traveller’s diarrhoea.
Treatments
Hydration is the key to traveller’s diarrhoea treatment. Small, frequent sips of water or diluted fruit juice are essential for staying hydrated. For more effective rehydration, oral rehydration salts or tablets are recommended. These should be taken around five times a day to replenish the fluids and electrolytes lost during the illness. It’s a good idea to include these in your travel kit as a precautionary measure.
In situations where you need to travel despite your condition, medications like loperamide (Imodium) can be used to temporarily reduce bowel movements. However, these should only be considered as a last resort and must not be used if there is blood in your stools, as this could indicate a more severe infection, where such medications could exacerbate the problem.
For a more targeted approach, Xifaxanta is a prescription-only medication available through our Travel Clinic. It is particularly effective in cases where there are fewer than eight loose stools in a 24-hour period, with no associated fever or blood in the stools. Xifaxanta contains an antibacterial agent that acts locally within the gut to eliminate the bacteria causing traveller’s diarrhoea symptoms. The recommended dosage is 200mg, taken three times a day for up to three days. Our pharmacists can provide this medication, which is especially useful if you are embarking on a short trip or visiting a remote location where medical assistance may be hard to access.
Availability
To find out more about this service, please visit your preferred pharmacy’s page or feel free to drop in at any time.
