Traveller\'s Diarrhea: Prevention and Treatment

Traveller\'s diarrhea is the most common travel-related illness, affecting 30 to 70% of travellers to high-risk destinations (parts of Africa, South/Southeast Asia, Central and South America, and the Middle East). It is typically caused by bacterial contamination (most often E. coli) in food or water. Symptoms include frequent loose stools, abdominal cramps, nausea, and sometimes fever. Most cases resolve within 3 to 5 days. Prevention strategies include drinking only bottled or boiled water, avoiding ice in drinks, eating only thoroughly cooked foods served hot, avoiding raw fruits and vegetables unless you peel them yourself, and practicing regular hand hygiene. Treatment focuses on hydration. Oral rehydration salts (ORS) are recommended. Anti-motility medications (loperamide) can help manage symptoms during travel but should not be used if you have bloody diarrhea or fever. Your physician may prescribe a course of antibiotics (such as azithromycin or ciprofloxacin) to carry with you for self-treatment in case of moderate to severe symptoms. This is particularly recommended for travellers visiting remote areas with limited medical access. A pre-travel telehealth consultation can provide prescriptions and personalized prevention advice. *This article is for informational purposes only.*

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Content reviewed by licensed Canadian physicians. Last updated February 2026.