Risks from Food and Drink

Travelers Diarrhea can ruin a vacation. The most common cause of travelers diarrhea is contaminated food and water. Contamination can be caused by viruses, bacteria or parasites. Many infectious diseases are transmitted in food and water.

To stay healthy wash your hands with soap and water before eating or use a waterless alcohol-based hand rub.

 Water Recommendations:

-Do not drink tap water or fountain drinks Drink only commercially canned or bottled drinks.

-Buy water in sealed bottles (use this for brushing your teeth).

-Do not drink beverages with ice.

-Fruit juice may not be safe if it is made with local water.

-Tea and coffee  should be safe if the water has been brought to a boil.

-Avoid drinking milk, unless you know it has been pasteurized.

Food Recommendations:

-Do not eat food from street vendors.

-All raw food is subject to contamination. Avoid salads and uncooked fruit and vegetables.

-Food should be thoroughly cooked and should be safe as long as it isn’t left out too long.

-Eat fruits and vegetables that you wash and peel yourself.

-Avoid milk products.

-Shell fish is streamed not cooked and should be avoided.

 “Boil it, cook it, peel it or forget it”

What can I do if I get diarrhea?

-Drink plenty of fluids (properly purified water) or boiled water, containing some sugar, to prevent dehydration or use commercially prepared products.

-Drink clear broth or eat salted crackers to compensate for loss of salt.

-Doctors may provide a stand-by treatment.

-If you have bloody stool, seek medical treatment.

-Most diarrhea last 6-12 hours. Seek medical treatment if symptoms persist or you have pain, vomiting and/or fever.

 Animals and Insects

 In many countries, rabies is a prevalent problem- avoid contact with local animals.

-Always wear shoes. On the beach wears sandals to avoid parasites.

-Do not swim in fresh water.

-Do not walk in long grass to avoid bites by snakes and spiders.

-Tuck your pants into your socks if you are in an area where fleas are a problem.

-Avoid mosquitoes as they may carry malaria and Dengue fever in developing countries.

            -bring insect repellent containing DEET-reapply after swimming

            -limit outdoor activity between dusk and dawn

            -wear long pants, long sleeved shirts and hat especially at dusk.

            -sleep in well screened area     

            -use bed nets treated with permethrin , coils and sprays containing pyrethroid.

 Sun Safety

A bad sunburn is not only painful but can be dangerous and can lead to cancer in later years.

-Avoid direct sunlight between 11 am-4 pm.

-Use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. Apply frequently.

-Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going out and re-apply after swimming or excessive sweating.

-Wear sunglasses, a hat and other protective clothing.

-Seek the shade or bring an umbrella.

Staying Healthy Hints

-Sterilization of needles and syringes may be inadequate, refrain form getting tattoos and body piercing while on holiday.

-Protect yourself from motor vehicle accidents. Do not drink and drive. Wear a seat belt. Use helmets on bikes and motorcycles. Avoid overloaded buses and when possible hire a local driver.

-Limit your alcohol intake. Alcohol along with the heat can cause dehydration. Alcohol can impair your judgment putting you at risk for injury. Do not swim under the influence.

-Protect yourself from sexually transmitted diseases. Use a condom.

-Protect yourself against sexual assault, be alert, stay with friends, limit your alcohol.

-Bring first aid kit. Include items such as Rx medications, acetaminophen, antibacterial cream, antidiarrheal, antihistamine, antimotion, oral rehydration package, bandages, antiseptic, alcohol based hand sanitizer.

-Watch your luggage at all times and do not leave bags unattended.

-Make sure you have travel medical insurance and what it covers.

-Bring a credit card.