When planning a trip abroad, many travellers focus on passports, tickets, and luggage but forget one of the most important essentials: protecting their health. Traveller’s diarrhoea is one of the most common illnesses experienced by people visiting regions where food and water safety standards may differ from those in the UK. At Mendus Pharmacy and Travel Clinic, we provide comprehensive support through both vaccinations and practical treatments like diarrhoea tablets, helping you stay safe and well throughout your journey.
Understanding Traveller’s Diarrhoea
Traveller’s diarrhoea can affect anyone visiting areas where food and water may be contaminated with bacteria, viruses, or parasites. The illness typically causes loose or watery stools, stomach cramps, nausea, and sometimes fever. Although most cases are mild and resolve within a few days, the condition can disrupt your holiday or business trip and, in some cases, lead to dehydration or more serious complications.
The risk is highest in parts of Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East. Even if you are cautious with what you eat and drink, there is always a possibility of exposure, which is why preparation before you travel is so important.
Vaccines That Protect Against Food and Water-Borne Illnesses
Prevention is the first line of defence. At Mendus Pharmacy, our travel clinic offers vaccinations that provide protection against several illnesses linked to contaminated food and water.
Typhoid vaccine: Typhoid fever is caused by Salmonella typhi and spreads through unsafe food and water. A single injection or oral course can provide protection, though boosters are needed depending on the type of vaccine.
Hepatitis A vaccine: This protects against hepatitis A, a viral liver infection transmitted through contaminated food and water. One injection provides strong protection, and a booster ensures long-term immunity.
Cholera vaccine: An oral vaccine is available for people travelling to areas with a high risk of cholera, another bacterial infection spread through poor sanitation and unsafe drinking water.
By receiving the right vaccines before you travel, you reduce the chances of contracting serious illnesses that not only cause diarrhoea but can also have long-lasting health consequences. Our pharmacists can review your travel plans and medical history to recommend the vaccines most suitable for your trip.
The Role of Diarrhoea Tablets
Even with vaccines and good hygiene practices, there is always a chance that you could still develop traveller’s diarrhoea. This is where diarrhoea tablets play an important role. These medicines help to reduce symptoms and make you feel more comfortable, allowing you to continue with your journey or at least shorten the disruption caused by illness.
Diarrhoea tablets usually work by slowing down the movement of the gut, which helps to reduce the frequency of bowel movements and control urgency. They are particularly useful if you need to travel long distances or attend important events and cannot be confined to a hotel room.
It is important to note that diarrhoea tablets treat the symptoms but do not cure the underlying infection. That is why they should be used in combination with rehydration solutions, rest, and, when necessary, medical advice. If symptoms are severe, prolonged, or accompanied by high fever or blood in the stool, you should seek professional medical help.
Vaccines and Diarrhoea Tablets: A Combined Approach
For comprehensive protection, the best approach is to combine vaccines with diarrhoea tablets. Vaccines reduce the risk of contracting serious illnesses like typhoid, hepatitis A, or cholera, while diarrhoea tablets provide relief if you still experience stomach upset from less severe infections.
This dual strategy ensures you are prepared for both prevention and treatment. By protecting your health in advance and carrying practical medicines with you, you can enjoy your travels with greater peace of mind.
Healthy Habits While Abroad
Alongside vaccines and diarrhoea tablets, taking sensible precautions abroad helps lower your risk. These include:
Drinking only bottled, boiled, or filtered water
Avoiding ice in drinks, as it may be made from unsafe water
Eating freshly cooked food served hot
Avoiding raw fruit and vegetables unless you can peel them yourself
Washing your hands frequently, especially before eating
These steps may sound simple, but they are highly effective in reducing exposure to harmful microbes.
Support at Mendus Pharmacy in Pembroke
At Mendus Pharmacy, our travel clinic in Pembroke offers a full range of services to keep you healthy abroad. We provide essential vaccines, supply diarrhoea tablets and rehydration products to help protect you from dehydration if you do contract anything, and offer practical advice tailored to your destination. Our team understands the challenges of travel health and works with you to make sure you are fully prepared before you set off.
Whether you are planning a family holiday, a backpacking adventure, or a business trip, visiting the pharmacy before you travel ensures you have the protection you need. By combining vaccinations, diarrhoea tablets, and sensible hygiene measures, you can minimise the risk of illness and maximise your enjoyment.
Tailored Travel Health Solutions
Traveller’s diarrhoea is common, but it does not have to ruin your trip. By asking the right questions before you leave and preparing with the appropriate vaccines and diarrhoea tablets, you can enjoy your travels without worry. At Mendus Pharmacy, our experienced team is ready to support you with expert advice and tailored travel health solutions. Reach out to book your consultation at our travel clinic in Pembroke today and make sure you are protected for your next journey.