How to Prevent Traveler’s Diarrhea: Tips for Safe Eating and Drinking on the Go

Introduction

Traveler’s diarrhea, also known as “Montezuma’s revenge,” is a digestive disorder that affects people who travel to areas with poor sanitation and food safety standards. It is caused by ingesting contaminated food or water, and can lead to abdominal cramping, nausea, vomiting, and loose stools.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), traveler’s diarrhea is the most common illness among travelers. Up to 40% of international travelers experience it, and up to 70% of travelers to certain countries, such as Mexico and India, experience it.

Prevention of Traveler’s Diarrhea

Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of getting traveler’s diarrhea. The following tips can help ensure that you stay healthy while traveling:

1. Drink only bottled or boiled water

Tap water in other countries may be contaminated with bacteria and parasites, so it’s best to avoid it. Stick to bottled water, which should be available at most restaurants and convenience stores. If bottled water is not available, make sure to boil any tap water before drinking it.

2. Avoid eating raw fruits and vegetables

Raw fruits and vegetables can carry harmful bacteria, so it’s best to avoid them. Choose cooked fruits and vegetables instead, and make sure they are thoroughly cooked.

3. Choose cooked food that is served hot

When ordering food in a restaurant, choose dishes that are served hot. This will help reduce the risk of contamination. Avoid food that has been sitting out for a long time, as it may have been exposed to bacteria.

4. Sanitize hands frequently

Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom and before eating. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

5. Use hand sanitizer before eating

Before eating, apply an alcohol-based hand sanitizer to your hands. This will reduce the risk of contamination from food that may have been handled by someone else.

Conclusion

Traveler’s diarrhea can be an unpleasant experience, but it is preventable. By following the tips outlined above—drinking only bottled or boiled water, avoiding raw fruits and vegetables, choosing cooked food that is served hot, sanitizing hands frequently, and using hand sanitizer before eating—you can reduce your risk of getting traveler’s diarrhea. For more information on traveler’s diarrhea and how to prevent it, visit the CDC website.