How Can I Prevent Diarrhea When Travelling?

Oct 13

2 min read

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Understanding Traveller’s Diarrhea

Nothing can ruin a dream vacation faster than spending your days looking for the nearest bathroom. Traveller’s diarrhea is one of the most common illnesses affecting people visiting other countries, especially destinations in Asia, Africa, andCentral and South America.

It’s often caused by consuming food or water contaminated with bacteria, viruses, or parasites. The most common culprit is a strain of E. coli known as enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC).

Simple Steps to Lower Your Risk

While it’s impossible to eliminate all risk, there are many ways to reduce your chances of getting sick:

Drink bottled or purified water only.
Avoid ice cubes and uncooked foods such as salads.
Eat food that’s thoroughly cooked and served hot.
Wash your hands frequently or use alcohol-based sanitizer.
Be cautious with street food, dairy products, and raw seafood.

Even with these precautions, many travellers still experience diarrhea, which is why vaccination can offer extra protection.

Dukoral: Oral Vaccine for Extra Protection

Dukoral is an oral vaccine that helps protect against cholera and traveller’s diarrhea caused by ETEC bacteria.

It works by helping your body develop immunity in the gut, where infection usually starts.

How it’s taken:

Adults and children over 6: 2 doses, one week apart
Children aged 2–6: 3 doses, one week apart
Complete the series at least 1 week before travelling

Who Should Consider Dukoral?

You may want to consider Dukoral if you are:

Travelling to developing or rural areas
Visiting friends or relatives abroad
Someone with a weakened immune system
A frequent traveller or backpacker
Travelling with young children

Your travel health provider can help you decide if it’s right for your trip.

Possible Side Effects

Most people tolerate Dukoral very well. Mild effects such as temporary stomach upset, nausea, or mild diarrhea may occur but usually resolve quickly.