So You Drank the Water…Now What
Posted on March 17, 2008
Well it may not be something that anyone wants to talk about. Okay it is definitely something that no one wants to talk about – particularly me – but it needs to be addressed. Traveler’s Diarrhea that is. So, since we are here to help travelers and since I don’t really want to get into this I am going to introduce my newest reoccurring guest blogger, Mr. John Gobbels – MedjetAssist VP/COO. In addition to being my boss Mr. Gobbels, as I like to call him, is one of our resident health experts and, well, he will talk about anything…
Advice on Traveler’s Diarrhea - John Gobbels, MedjetAssist VP/COO
Travelers’ diarrhea (TD) is the most common illness affecting travelers. In fact, each year between 20%-50% of international travelers, an estimated 10 million persons, develop diarrhea. Persons at high risk are those with previous inflammatory bowel disease, immunosuppressed persons, and those individuals taking H-2 blockers or antacids. The primary source of the infection is fecally contaminated food or water and is usually encountered in high risk areas such as Latin America, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
Travelers diarrhea usually begins abruptly resulting in an increased frequency, typically four to five loose stools each day. Other symptoms that could present would be nausea, vomiting, cramping, and fever. Most cases last between 1-2 days, but could remain for up to 4 weeks. Travelers diarrhea is rarely life threatening, but travelers with other underlying health problems could have serious complications.
In 80% of TD cases, bacterial enteropathogens are the causative agent. The most common agent has been enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC). Besides ETEC and other bacterial pathogens, a variety of viral and parasitic enteric pathogens also are potential causative agents.
So what can we do to prevent TD? Using a common sense approach with regard to eating and drinking is paramount. Avoid eating foods or drinking beverages purchased from street vendors or other questionable establishments. Avoid any raw or undercooked meats or seafood, and avoid any raw fruit that you don’t peel yourself. Frequent hand washing or utilizing a 60% alcohol based hand sanitizer is also recommended.
In the unfortunate event that you contract TD, there are several treatments available if it does not self-resolve. Obviously, oral rehydration is beneficial in replacing lost fluids and electrolytes. Individuals who develop three or more loose stools in an 8-hour period with other associated symptoms may benefit from antibiotic therapy. One of the most commonly prescribed medications, and one that we recommend our members pack is Ciprofloxacin 500mg. Utilization of antidiarrheal medications can be used in uncomplicated cases of TD, but should not be utilized by travelers with fever or bloody diarrhea, as they can increase the severity of the disease be delaying clearance of the causative organism. If the diarrhea persists, you should be evaluated by a doctor as soon as possible.
As always, MedjetAssist physicians are available 24 hours to provide medical insight and recommendations, even if you are not hospitalized. From medical consults to medical facility referrals, we’re here to help.
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