Travelers experience stomach issues as health officials suggest essential items to bring on your journeys

Dr. Robert Redfield warns of wash-resistant parasites in produce

Dr. Robert Redfield, the former director of the CDC, has raised concerns about the increasing presence of cyclosporiasis parasites. He points out that these parasites are resistant to typical laundry methods and chlorine treatments. Redfield emphasizes the importance of cooking produce to at least 158 degrees Fahrenheit to effectively kill off harmful pathogens. The parasite spreads through water and vegetables contaminated with fecal matter, and it requires some level of environmental exposure to infect humans.

Stomach issues can rapidly turn a perfect vacation into a long stay in your hotel, but doctors insist that having a few essential items can help keep your summer and fall trips enjoyable. The CDC indicates that gastrointestinal illnesses due to bacteria, viruses, and parasites are common causes of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.

Traveler’s diarrhea, primarily caused by bacteria, is noted as the most frequent illness related to travel. Estimates suggest that between 30% and 70% of travelers may experience this during a two-week trip, with variations based on the destination and season.

While you can’t prevent all forms of gastroenteritis, doctors recommend packing specific essentials. These can help manage symptoms, prevent dehydration, and inform you when it might be necessary to seek medical advice.

Oral rehydration salts or electrolyte packets to replace fluids and electrolytes lost through diarrhea and vomiting.

Over-the-counter antidiarrheal medicine and loperamide for mild cases of diarrhea, but avoid these if diarrhea is accompanied by fever or blood in the stool.

Bismuth subsalicylate (like Pepto-Bismol) can sometimes help prevent or reduce diarrhea in travelers, although it’s not suitable for everyone, particularly those with certain allergies or medical conditions.

Hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol for situations where soap and water aren’t accessible.

When illness occurs, staying hydrated takes priority. Chad D. Nielsen, who directs infection prevention and control at Nemours Children’s Health, previously mentioned that while common abdominal discomfort typically resolves within a few days, dehydration can become serious enough to necessitate medical care.

Travelers are also advised to make smart food choices to lower the risk of gastrointestinal issues. Bethany Dorfler, a senior clinical research dietitian at Northwestern Medicine’s Digestive Health Institute, suggests thoroughly cooking high-risk veggies like leafy greens and fresh herbs to mitigate the chances of contracting gastrointestinal illnesses, including parasitic infections like Cyclospora. “Heating to a temperature of 160 degrees or more Fahrenheit will kill the parasite,” she states.

Dorfler also recommends opting for fruits and vegetables with tough skins that can be washed and peeled, such as bananas and avocados, instead of completely avoiding fresh produce.

The CDC points out that while being careful about food and drink can decrease the likelihood of gastrointestinal illnesses, these measures cannot entirely prevent them due to hygiene standards often being beyond a traveler’s control.

Travelers should seek medical attention if diarrhea continues or worsens, especially if it includes fever, bloody stools, or signs of dehydration.