Traveller's Diarrhoea Treatment and Advice

At Kennedy’s Pharmacy, we offer a Travel Vaccination Service which provides protection and advice from a wide range of diseases, including Traveller's Diarrhoea alongside malaria, hepatitis, rabies and yellow fever. We will be able to recommend what type of protection is best for you and it will be provided in either tablet form or as a vaccine.

We provide vaccine certificates for all administered vaccines including Yellow Fever. For more information and advice for specific countries and protection please contact us by phone.

Always leave sufficient time (6 - 8 weeks) before your travel plans to receive your vaccination. As always, your health and safety should be a top priority.

Making a Travel Service Appointment

Booking for this service is currently made by telephoning either of our pharmacies in Rasharkin or Dunloy. 

At present Travel Vaccines are offered mainly in our Rasharkin pharmacy with our pharmacist, Martin McPeake who has completed specialist training in Travel Health.

Tel: 028 2957 1124 (Rasharkin)

You can also leave your details with the form at the bottom and Martin will be in touch to help or get started!

At your initial consultation, Martin will advise you on what you need to do in order to meet the requirements for safe travel to your particular destination, as well as General Travel Health Advice and self-care. It would also be helpful to have the following information for this appointment:

• Personal Details
• Country of destination plus travel itinerary
• Duration of travel
• Medication history
• Vaccination history

What is Traveller's Diarrhoea?

Travellers' diarrhoea is spread mainly through food and water but it can also spread from person to person. It is one of the commonest health problems experienced during travel.

This condition can result from various pathogens, including bacteria (such as E.coli and Salmonella), viruses (like norovirus), and parasites.

The transmission of these germs occurs through consuming contaminated food and water, as well as the use of tainted dishes and cutlery.

Additionally, alterations in diet, such as oily or spicy foods, can also contribute to loose stools.

Risk of Traveller's Diarrhoea

Travellers’ diarrhoea is when you have 3 or more bouts of loose, watery poo in 24 hours. Most cases are mild, but for some people it is severe.

Travellers' diarrhoea tends to happen in the first week of travel. Symptoms last on average 3 to 5 days and usually get better without you needing specific treatment.

Tips To Help Prevent Traveller's Diarrhoea

Drink Safe Water

Consume only bottled or purified water.

Avoid ice in drinks from questionable sources.

Eat Well-Cooked Food

Ensure that all foods, especially meat and seafood, are thoroughly cooked.

Avoid raw or undercooked eggs.

Practice Hand Hygiene

Wash hands frequently with soap and water.

Use hand sanitiser when soap and water are unavailable.

Choose Safe Beverages

Opt for bottled or canned drinks to minimize the risk of waterborne illnesses.

Avoid Street Food

Street food may be prepared under unhygienic conditions; choose carefully.

Peel or Wash Fruits and Vegetables

Peel fruits and vegetables or wash them thoroughly with safe water.

Be Cautious with Dairy

Consume only pasteurised dairy products.

Use Trusted Eating Establishments

Select restaurants and food vendors with good hygiene practices.

Limit Oily and Spicy Foods

Reduce consumption of oily and spicy foods, which can contribute to digestive issues.

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of safe fluids to stay hydrated, especially in warm climates.

Be Mindful of Hygiene Practices

Avoid touching your face and mouth with unwashed hands.

Pack Medications

Consider bringing diarrhoea medications, as recommended by a healthcare professional such as those at Kennedy's Pharmacy

It is crucial to prioritise your health and take the necessary precautions by getting a consultation. Please consult with us for personalised advice and to address any specific concerns you may have.

Prices Per Vaccine

Prices are accurate from December 2023 but may fluctuate depending on cost prices at the time of consultation.

Vaccine	Price
Cholera	£60
Diphtheria, tetanus and polio	£35
Hepatitis A	£65
Hepatitis B	£55
Hepatitis B Paediatric	£30
Hepatitis A and B combined	£79
Japanese Encephalitis	£95
Meningococcal ACWY	£60
Rabies	£85
Tick-borne encephalitis	£65
Typhoid	£35
Yellow Fever	£70

 

Anti-Malarial Tablets Priced per Prescription for duration of trip

Frequently Asked Questions 

What are the symptoms of Traveller's Diarrhoea?

The main symptom is loose stool that occurs suddenly. The stool may be watery. Other symptoms may include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Bloating
• Belly (abdominal) pain or cramps
• Blood in the stool
• Trouble waiting to have a bowel movement (urgency)
• Feeling tired
• Fever

In most cases, symptoms last less than a week.

What countries or areas have a risk of Traveller's Diarrhoea?

You are at risk for this condition if you travel to a country that has poor public sanitation and hygiene. Poor hygiene in local restaurants is also a risk factor. Places that have the highest risk are often in developing countries in:

• Africa
• Asia
• Central and South America
• The Middle East

This just a shortlist, please consult with us for specific guidance.

Treatment options for Traveller's Diarrhoea?

We can prescribe Xifaxanta®200mg film coated tablets for traveller's diarrhoea in our travel clinic.  It is a three day treatment course consisting of one tablet three times a day.  Medical advice should be sought when symptoms occur such as blood stained stools, fever, dehydration, frequent, watery stools, repeated vomiting, diarrhoea persists for more than 3 or 4 days.

Is there a cost for the travel vaccination service?

There is a £35 fee for your initial consultation and any additional cost will depend on your individual situation and what products you may require for your trip. The pharmacist will be able to advise.