Traveller's diarrhoea

Diarrhoea is the most frequent illness of travellers to developing countries. Preventing diarrhoea involves eating and drinking safely and attention to hygiene. Traveller's diarrhoea is usually self-limited. Treatment is with fluids and electrolyte replacement - antimotility agents and empirical short antibiotic courses may be used in more severe or prolonged cases. Special attention should be given to children, pregnant women and patients with chronic diseases before travel. Dehydration is the most important complication of diarrhoea, especially in children. Travellers with diarrhoea continuing for more than two to three weeks after return should be investigated.