Diarrhoea

Diarrhoea during travel is thought to affect 10 million travelers each year. The most common cause is a bacteria called E. coli. Traveller’s diarrhoea is characterized by frequent loose bowel motions, abdominal cramps, nausea and vomiting.  On trail, it can complicate an already grueling exercise with severe dehydration and fatigue.

The bacteria that cause traveller’s diarrhoea are sensitive to some antibiotics, including ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin and azithromycin.   Prophylactic antibiotic treatment is not recommended for healthy adults.


This risk of contracting traveller’s diarrhoea can be substantially decreased by strict adherence to simple hygiene precautions.  Wash hands before eating and after going to the toilet, purify all water, ensure food is freshly cooked and fruit (and nuts) are peeled.

For those who get traveller’s diarrhoea while on the Trail, a single large dose of antibiotic is usually all that is required
Ciprofloxacin – 1.5g
Norfloxacin – 800mg
Azithromycin – 1g

 
Last Updated on Tuesday, 09 March 2010 15:42