Student Health Clinic

General Information for All Travelers

Risks from Food and Drink

Contaminated food and drink are common sources for the introduction of infection into the body. Many of the infectious diseases transmitted in food and water can also be acquired directly through the fecal-oral route.
(Good hand washing is essential!)

Food- if you can’t cook or peel it, don’t eat it!

Foods should be selected with care. Eating from street vendors may be risky. All raw food is subject to contamination. Avoid salads, uncooked vegetables, and unpasteurized milk products. Eat only food that has been cooked and is still hot, or fruit that you have peeled. Undercooked and raw meat, fish, and shellfish may carry various intestinal pathogens.

Water

In areas where chlorinated tap water is not available, or where hygiene and sanitation are poor, travelers should be advised that only the following might be safe to drink:

1. Beverages, such as tea and coffee, made with boiled water
2. Canned or bottled beverages including water are the best choice; dry the outside of wet cans or bottles before drinking

Ice is considered contaminated. Do not use it in beverages.
Containers should be thoroughly cleaned with soap and hot water. It is safer to drink a beverage directly from a can or bottle than from a questionable container.

Where water may be contaminated, travelers should avoid brushing their teeth with tap water.

Traveler’s Diarrhea

Many travelers will have symptoms of diarrhea. This is acquired through eating or drinking contaminated food and/or water. Most people have symptoms for approximately three to four days.

• Increase your fluid intake
• You may use Imodium A.D. (available over-the-counter) to slow down the diarrhea symptoms
• Pepto Bismol may be taken to help prevent diarrhea. Two tablets, four times a day is the recommended dosage. (Note: your tongue may appear black, as well as your stools. This is normal.)
• An antibiotic may be carried along to treat diarrhea. Cipro is often prescribed.
• If you get bloody diarrhea or high fevers, do not treat yourself. Seek medical attention immediately.

Diseases Transmitted by Insects

Many diseases are transmitted through the bite of infected insects, such as mosquitoes, flies, fleas, ticks, and lice. In general, travelers must protect themselves from insect bites. Be sure to pack the following:

• Insect repellent with 30% DEET
• Long-sleeved shirts, long pants

Many insect-transmitted diseases are not prevented by vaccines or drugs. Some insect-borne diseases, like dengue fever, are transmitted during the day. Malaria is transmitted from dusk until dawn. Use bed nets if available.

Preventive Care

Motion sickness may be prevented with over-the-counter antihistamine tablets (Dramamine, Bonine)

Heat and sun exposure

Wear protective clothing/hats and sunglasses, drink a lot of fluids, avoid alcohol, and always use sunscreens and lip balms with UVA and UVB sun protective factor of at least 30.

Contact your insurance company regarding medical and accidental coverage abroad.

Prescription Mediations

Travelers who take prescription medication should carry an adequate supply in the original containers.

Pack all medicines in carry-on luggage.

The Post-Travel Period

If you become ill after returning to the United States, consult a physician. Symptoms of viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections could appear within six weeks. Symptoms of some diseases such as malaria may not show up for six months to a year later.

If indicated, have TB testing three months after your return.

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