Travellers’ diarrhoea (TD) is a common concern caused by consuming contaminated food or water in unfamiliar destinations.
Specific TD vaccines aren’t available yet. However, we at Miles Pharmacy, provide essential vaccinations against other common travel-related illnesses like typhoid, hepatitis A, and cholera.
Our clinic offers a wide range of services to protect you from health risks abroad. So, get ready for your next journey with Miles Pharmacy’s travel health clinic in Epsom, catering to Sutton.
What is Travellers’ Diarrhoea?
Travellers’ diarrhoea (TD) is a common gastrointestinal illness experienced by people travelling to developing countries. It is typically caused by consuming contaminated food or water, leading to symptoms such as abdominal cramps, nausea, and frequent watery stools. While it’s often not life-threatening, TD can disrupt travel plans and cause discomfort.
What are the Causes of Travellers’ Diarrhoea?
Travellers’ diarrhoea is primarily caused by ingesting bacteria, viruses, or parasites commonly found in contaminated food and water sources. Poor hygiene practices, including improper handwashing and unsanitary food handling, contribute significantly to the risk of contracting TD.
Is There a Vaccine for Travellers’ Diarrhoea?
Currently, there is no widely available vaccine specifically for travellers’ diarrhoea. However, our travel health clinic offers travellers’ diarrhoea protection to the residents of various locations including Sutton through a range of vaccinations. These can protect against other common travel-related illnesses such as typhoid, hepatitis A, and cholera.
Travel Health Advice on Preventing Travellers’ Diarrhoea
Travellers’ diarrhoea can quickly turn a trip into an uncomfortable experience. Here’s how you can safeguard your health and enjoy your journey without the inconvenience of travellers’ diarrhoea-
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the restroom.
- Consume only thoroughly cooked foods and beverages that are sealed or boiled. Avoid raw fruits and vegetables unless you can peel them yourself.
- Drink bottled water or use water purification methods such as boiling or filtering.
- Avoid ice cubes made from tap water and unpasteurised dairy products.
- Be cautious with street food and buffets. Opt for freshly prepared, hot meals.
What to Do if You Contract TD Abroad?
Traveler’s diarrhoea is characterised by loose stools, abdominal cramps, and sometimes fever. Here’s how you can manage it effectively while abroad-
- Stay Hydrated– Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
- Rest and Rehydrate– Allow your body to rest, and replenish electrolytes with oral rehydration solutions.
- Medication– Consider carrying over-the-counter medications like loperamide to relieve symptoms.
- Seek Medical Help– Consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist, worsen, or if you experience severe dehydration.
Visit Miles Pharmacy for Advice on Travellers’ Diarrhoea
Traveller’s diarrhoea is a common but unavoidable illness as it can greatly affect your trip. At our travel health clinic in Epsom, we are committed to safeguarding your health with reliable travel vaccination services.
We serve the areas of Epsom, Sutton and beyond. Book your consultation with us for travellers’ diarrhoea advice and other travel vaccines.