Public Health
Survey

Help us improve our Health Website

Take 2-3 minutes to tell us what you are looking for today.

Your feedback will help us improve our site.

No thanks
Take the survey
Living > Public Health, Safety

Travellers' Diarrhea

Before departure, you should learn about the health conditions in the country or countries you plan to visit, your own risk of disease and the steps you can take to prevent illness by visiting a travel health clinic or a physician.

Every year thousands of Canadian travellers may return home with more than just memories of their trip. Travellers' Diarrhea (TD) is one of the most common medical problems affecting travellers to tropical destinations. The risk of getting TD is related to the countries which you visit, the duration of your visit, and your food and beverage choices. Although usually mild, TD can affect the quality of a vacation or the success of a business trip.

Bacteria, parasites and viruses that cause TD can be transmitted by:

  1. Contaminated food
  2. Contaminated water, including ice cubes in drinks
  3. Germs on the hands of persons preparing the food
  4. Germs on your own hands
SYMPTOMS

The severity and length of symptoms depend upon which microorganism (e.g. E. coli, Salmonella, Giardia, Rotovirus, etc.) is causing the illness. In general, TD presents in one of three ways:

Toilet Paper Watery diarrhea
  • Most common, affects 60% of travellers.
  • Often caused by a bacteria; only 5-10% of cases are caused by intestinal viruses.
Dysentery (bloody diarrhea)
  • Up to 15% travellers can be affected.
  • Results from a more serious intestinal infection caused by certain bacteria (and sometimes parasites) that invade and inflame the wall of the intestine.

Chronic Diarrhea

  • 3 to 5% of travellers may develop chronic diarrhea; diarrhea lasting more than one month.
  • Parasites are the most common infectious cause of chronic diarrhea.

From food vendors, relative's homes, to luxury hotels, you may be at risk. Consider these tips to help prevent getting sick.

Remember, travellers' diarrhea is avoidable. The risk of illness depends on the food and water you eat and drink, and the use of good personal hygiene. Don't forget to WASH YOUR HANDS frequently!

This information is intended to provide general health-related information about travellers' diarrhea. It is not intended to replace medical consultation at a travel health clinic or by your physician.


Did you find what you were looking for today?