What is the first treatment for traveller's diarrhoea?

Diarrhoea during or after travel can remove water and electrolytes from the body. Oral rehydration solution supplies a measured balance of fluid and salts that is easier for the body to absorb than plain water alone. Take frequent small sips, particularly after each loose stool, and follow the product instructions for mixing and storage.

Many episodes improve with fluids, rest, and simple food as tolerated. Antibiotic treatment is not suitable for every episode. A clinician considers the severity, duration, fever, blood in the stool, suspected cause, destination, and your health before prescribing it.

Use a properly prepared oral rehydration solution and continue drinking regularly. Eat small, plain meals when you feel able. Wash your hands carefully after using the toilet and before handling food, and avoid preparing food for other people while unwell.

Contact a clinician if symptoms are not settling, if you have a significant medical condition, or if you are pregnant, very young, or older and losing fluid quickly. Mention where you travelled, when symptoms began, recent foods, fever, vomiting, and any medicine already taken.

Seek urgent medical care for confusion, fainting, inability to keep fluids down, very little urine, marked weakness, severe abdominal pain, high fever, or blood or black material in the stool. These signs can indicate dehydration or a more serious infection and should not be managed with self-care alone.

Ask whether oral rehydration is enough for you, whether testing or antibiotic treatment is appropriate, which foods and drinks to choose, and when it is safe to resume travel or work.