Every year, up to half of international travelers suffer from Traveler's Diarrhea while on vacation. Make sure you get to enjoy your holiday — find out how to avoid Traveler's Diarrhea, and what to do if you get it.

What Is It?
Traveler's Diarrhea is typically a type of infectious diarrhea that begins abruptly. Traveler's Diarrhea is caused by bacteria, and not from something like stress or medication. Traveler's Diarrhea is more likely to occur in certain locations versus others. Developing countries in Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia are considered higher-risk destinations. Most cases of Traveler's Diarrhea will improve within three to four days without treatment and should clear up completely within a week.

What Are the Causes?
Typically, Traveler's Diarrhea is caused by consuming contaminated food or water. The most common contaminant is E. coli bacteria.

What Are the Symptoms?
Common symptoms include:

• Increased frequency, volume, and weight of stool
• Frequent diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Bloating and cramping
• Loose or watery stool

How Do You Treat It?

• Rehydrate yourself. Drink lots of bottled water or sports drinks. Remember to drink only bottled beverages, as tap water may be the cause of your symptoms.
• Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and dairy products. These types of things can actually worsen your condition.
• Take an over-the-counter anti-diarrheal, like IMODIUM® A-D or IMODIUM® Multi-Symptom Relief.

How Can You Prevent It?

• Drink only bottled water or hot beverages.
• Only eat fruits you have peeled yourself.
• Only eat foods that are well cooked and arrive hot.
• Don't drink tap water or use ice cubes in high-risk areas (e.g., Latin America, Africa, South Asia).
• Don't eat uncooked vegetables, including salads.
• Avoid eating food from street vendors.
• Don't eat undercooked or raw meats, fish, or shellfish.
• Don't drink unpasteurized milk or other unpasteurized dairy products.
• Avoid eating moist foods at room temperature, such as sauces and buffet items.