Traveller’s Diarrhoea Service

What is Traveller’s Diarrhoea?  

Traveller’s Diarrhoea is one of the most common illnesses in travellers. The cause of this bacterial infection can come from drinking contaminated water or eating contaminated food. Areas of the world where this is a high risk are: South and Southeast Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, Central and South America and the Middle East. 

A prescribed medication is offered to treat this condition, only if this is caused by bacteria. Symptoms of a bacterial infection include: 

• Three or more unformed stools in 24 hours  
• Nausea 
• Vomiting  
• Abdominal cramps  
• Fever 

These symptoms tend to occur during or shortly after travelling.  

How does this service work?  

Before travelling and whilst you are abroad, there are prevention measures in place to help you reduce your risk. These include:  

• Thoroughly washing your hands with soap and warm water after using the toilet, before preparing food and before eating food.  
• Use disinfectant to clean the toilet (this includes the handle and the seat) after each episode of diarrhoea. 
• Avoid sharing towels, flannels, cutlery or other utensils with other household members.  
• Avoid using potentially unsafe tap water for cooking or drinking as well as undercooked food when travelling abroad. 

If these steps haven’t been successful and you’re still experiencing symptoms of traveller’s diarrhoea, visit Allied Pharmacy and speak with a pharmacist. 

A pharmacist can assess your health and, if needed, prescribe a recommended treatment to clear your symptoms.  

What should I do if I have diarrhoea abroad?  

As diarrhoea can spread easily, here are some advice for what to do: 

• Stay at your hotel, hostel, villa or the place you are staying 
• Get plenty of rest 
• Drink lots of fluids for example, squash or water (small sips may be needed if you feel sick) 
• Eat when you feel able however, avoid foods that are fatty or spicy.  
• If you are in discomfort, taking a pain relief like paracetamol can help. 

Diarrhoea usually clears within 5 to 7 days, and staying hydrated can prevent it from worsening. Staying hydrated reduces the risk of dehydration, which is common when diarrhoea occurs. This is because the body is losing essential fluids and electrolytes during this time.