Traveller’s diarrhoea is the most common illness affecting holidaymakers abroad. The good news? It’s highly preventable with the right travel health advice, good hygiene practices, and—when necessary—effective treatment. Emcare Travel Clinic provides personalised guidance and essential vaccinations to help travellers avoid stomach infections and stay well on their trip.
What Is Traveller’s Diarrhoea?
Traveller’s diarrhoea is usually caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites found in contaminated food and water. It’s common in:
- Asia
- Africa
- The Middle East
- South America
- Central America
While most cases are mild, severe diarrhoea can lead to dehydration, missed activities, and ruined travel plans—especially on shorter holidays, business trips, or cruises.
Why Does Traveller’s Diarrhoea Happen?
You’re exposed to germs that your body isn’t familiar with. Risk increases when:
- Eating food prepared in poor hygiene conditions
- Drinking untreated or contaminated water
- Eating raw vegetables or salads washed in local water
- Trying new foods your stomach isn’t used to
- Travelling to regions with lower sanitation standards
A pre-travel consultation at Emcare Travel Clinic helps assess the risks in your itinerary and provides tailored prevention advice.
How to Prevent Traveller’s Diarrhoea
Prevention starts long before you board your flight. Here’s what works:
Be Careful With Water
Use only:
- Bottled water
- Boiled water
- Water purified with iodine/chlorine tablets
- Sealed beverages
Avoid:
- Ice in drinks
- Brushing teeth with tap water
- Fruit juices from street vendors
Eat Food That’s Properly Cooked
Always choose:
- Food served piping hot
- Freshly cooked meals
- Restaurants with good hygiene ratings
Avoid:
- Raw or undercooked meats
- Salads washed in tap water
- Buffet dishes left sitting for long periods
- Unpasteurised dairy products
Use Good Hand Hygiene
Wash hands with soap or use alcohol gel:
- Before eating
- After using the toilet
- After handling money
- After touching animals
Simple habits can significantly reduce the risk of infection.
Consider Essential Vaccinations
Some cases of severe diarrhoea are caused by Typhoid and Hepatitis A, both of which are common in many travel destinations.
You can get these vaccines under the Travel Vaccinations service at Emcare.
- Typhoid vaccine protects against severe intestinal infection
- Hepatitis A vaccine protects against liver infection caused by contaminated food/water
You can also explore your options under Holiday Vaccinations if you’re travelling for leisure.
Treatments That Actually Work
If you do get traveller’s diarrhoea, most cases resolve within a few days. Effective treatments include:
Rehydration Solutions
Dehydration is the biggest risk. Oral rehydration salts (ORS) restore:
- Fluids
- Electrolytes
- Energy levels
These are essential for children, older adults, and travellers with severe symptoms.
Over-the-Counter Medicines
Useful options include:
- Loperamide (Imodium) for short-term symptom control
- ORS packets for fluid replacement
- Probiotics, which can support gut recovery
Avoid taking anti-diarrhoeal medicines if you have a high fever or blood in the stool.
Antibiotics for Severe Cases
A short course of antibiotics may be required if symptoms are:
- Persistent
- Accompanied by fever
- Causing significant dehydration
- Impacting travel plans
During your consultation, Emcare’s nurses can advise whether you may need stand-by antibiotics for high-risk destinations.
When to Seek Medical Help
Seek medical care urgently if:
- Diarrhoea lasts longer than 3 days
- You experience high fever
- You see blood in your stool
- You cannot keep fluids down
- Symptoms become severe very quickly
Your nurse at Emcare will help you understand what to watch for based on your destination and risk level.
Additional Tips to Stay Healthy Abroad
- Avoid street food unless it’s freshly cooked
- Peel fruit yourself
- Carry hand sanitiser everywhere
- Pack a travel first-aid kit
- Take it slow when trying new foods
- Drink plenty of safe fluids every day
You can find travel health essentials under the Travel Products section of the Emcare website.
Why Choose Emcare Travel Clinic?
A visit to Emcare ensures:
- A personalised travel risk assessment
- Up-to-date vaccinations
- Prevention advice specific to your destination
- Trusted, nurse-led guidance
- Convenient Glasgow City Centre location
- Travel health support for individuals, families, and groups
Explore more options under School and Group Vaccines or Corporate Vaccinations if you’re travelling as a group or for business.
Book Your Travel Health Appointment Today
The best way to avoid traveller’s diarrhoea is to prepare early with expert advice and essential vaccinations.
Book your appointment today. Stay safe, stay healthy, and enjoy every part of your trip—without the worry of stomach problems.
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