At a glance
What travellers should know
- Affects a large proportion of travellers to higher-risk destinations
- Usually caused by contaminated food or water
- Most cases resolve within a few days with self-care
- Staying hydrated is the most important part of managing it
Prevention
Stick to bottled or properly treated water, avoid ice unless you know it's made from safe water, and be cautious with salads, unpeeled fruit and undercooked food.
"Boil it, cook it, peel it, or forget it" remains a useful rule of thumb in higher-risk destinations.
What to pack
Oral rehydration salts, and consider asking your pharmacist about a stand-by antibiotic course for higher-risk destinations, which can be used if symptoms are significant.
If you feel seriously unwell
- Symptoms lasting more than a few days
- Blood in your stool
- High fever alongside diarrhoea
- Signs of dehydration, particularly in children or older travellers
Common questions
Traveller's Diarrhoea FAQs
For some higher-risk destinations, our pharmacist may recommend a stand-by course to use only if you develop significant symptoms — this is assessed individually and isn't suitable for everyone.
Generally yes if sealed, but check the seal is intact and be cautious of ice, as it may be made from tap water.