Traveler's Diarrhea

Traveler's Diarrhea Overview

Diarrhea occurs in a significant number of people who travel to foreign countries. Travelers to developing countries of the world become ill from eating or drinking food or water contaminated by infected human bowel waste.

Traveler's diarrhea can be defined as three or more unformed stools in a 24-hour period.

Who is at risk for traveler's diarrhea?

• People traveling from industrialized countries to developing countries.
• Traveler's diarrhea is more common in young adults.
• About 30%-50% of travelers to the high-risk areas will develop diarrhea.

High-risk areas

• Mexico
• Latin America
• Africa
• Middle East
• Asia

Moderate-risk areas

• Caribbean islands
• Southern Europe
• Israel

Low-risk areas

• United States
• Canada
• Northern Europe
• New Zealand
• Australia