Traveler's diarrhea (TD) is a term used to describe the diarrhea caused by infection with bacteria, protozoa, or viruses ingested by consuming food or water that has been contaminated. About 80 to 90 percent of TD cases are caused by bacterial pathogens--Escherichia coli, Campylobacter jejuni, Shigella sp., and Salmonella sp. Ten percent of TD cases in long-term travelers are caused by protozoal pathogens--Giardia intestinalis, or Entamoeba histolytica.
What are the causes of traveler's diarrhea?
Traveler's diarrhea describes a specific condition that happens when visitors from countries that have good public sanitation and hygiene travel to countries that have poor public sanitation and hygiene. Poor hygiene practice in local restaurants has been identified as the main contributor to the risk for TD. These are often the developing countries, and high-risk areas are located in Africa, Asia, Mexico, Central and South American, and the Middle East. Traveler's diarrhea is caused by drinking water or eating foods contaminated with fecal material, unsafe storage of food, improper food handling and preparation, and inadequate sterilization of surfaces and utensils used in food preparation. Treatment for traveler's diarrhea:
Traveler's diarrhea, although uncomfortable and unpleasant, usually lasts only a few days. Dehydration (loss of fluids) can be a serious side effect, especially for children and babies. Drinking plenty of non-contaminated fluids is important. For diarrhea that is worse than normal or lasts more than three days, it is best for the traveler to consult a physician rather than try self-medication - especially for pregnant women and children. Seek medical help when diarrhea is:
• severe. • bloody. • does not get better within a few days. • accompanied by fever and chills. • causes dehydration.
