Traveller’s Diarrhoea

Understanding traveller’s diarrhoea

Traveller’s diarrhoea is a common ailment affecting those who travel to different parts of the world, particularly regions with lower hygiene standards. It is typically caused by consuming contaminated food or water and can be brought on by various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites.

Symptoms usually include frequent loose stools, abdominal cramps, nausea, and sometimes fever.

Impact on travel

While traveller’s diarrhoea is often self-limiting and resolves within a few days, it can significantly disrupt travel plans, causing discomfort and inconvenience.

Severe cases can lead to dehydration and require medical attention, especially in vulnerable individuals such as young children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions.

Preventive measures

To reduce the risk of traveller’s diarrhoea, it is crucial to take preventive measures:

• Hygiene practices: Regular hand washing, especially before eating or handling food.
• Safe eating and drinking: Consume only bottled or purified water, avoid ice in drinks, and eat thoroughly cooked and served hot food.
• Vaccination: Consider vaccination as a proactive measure to safeguard against specific bacteria that cause traveller’s diarrhoea.

Cholera and traveller’s diarrhoea vaccine

Our participating pharmacies offer Dukoral, an oral vaccine that provides protection against cholera and has been shown to reduce the risk of traveller’s diarrhoea caused by Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC), one of the most common bacterial causes of the condition.

How can I book an appointment?

How can I book an appointment?

Our travel vaccination services are available in the following pharmacies: 

• Birchwood Pharmacy in Lincoln
• Cabourne Avenue Pharmacy in Lincoln
• Parkside Pharmacy in Boston

You can schedule your consultation and vaccination by filling in the Pharmadoctor form on the relevant service page. If you have any questions, contact your local pharmacy branch.