Almost every traveler will suffer from food poisoning at one point and it can be blamed to a fast food burger or even a meal in a chic restaurant. It is important to bear in mind that there are measures to reduce the risk of getting sick as well as help hasten the recovery period. Always consider buying extra travel insurance when travelling abroad, especially when visiting a developing country since a minor ailment can turn into a serious health issue. You can also enroll in a first aid class so that you are prepared with what to do.
How to avoid food poisoning while travelling
You can still enjoy the local cuisine while traveling and avoid food poisoning. It is best to look for bustling places where locals gather since they know what is safe and make sure to check if the food served appears hygienic and clean.
When visiting developing countries, you have to avoid tap water, drinks with ice as well as eating produce that do not have any peel that was cleaned using tap water. Always wash hands or clean them using a disinfectant before eating in order to prevent the transmission of germs into the food being eaten.
Street food basics
Street food is delicious in several countries but it can be risky. The best way to stay healthy is to stick with bustling stalls that have a high turnover since it means that you will not be given food that has been sitting around for some time.
Observe the cook and check if he/she appears generally clean and healthy and regularly washes his/her hands. Take note that some cooking methods are effective in eliminating germs since bacteria are unlikely to survive in foods that have broiling broth or cooked on a hot skillet.
Vaccinations
The best way to avoid traveler’s diarrhea or cholera when vacationing in developing countries is to take an oral vaccine. The vaccine is usually given in two doses with an interval of 1-6 weeks apart. The last dose should be administered at least a week before travelling for full protection. The vaccine is comprised of minimal amounts of bacteria that cause cholera and diarrhea. The exposure will allow the body to develop protective antibodies.
Treatment for food poisoning
If the individual acquires food poisoning while travelling, it is advised to avoid spicy, greasy foods and opt for bland foods such as plain rice and crackers. The individual should drink plenty of water or soda to replace the lost fluids in order to prevent dehydration from developing.
In case diarrhea is the only issue while travelling, you can provide over-the-counter medications but they might worsen the condition, thus it is best to consult a doctor as soon as possible. When a doctor is consulted, it is important to have the condition checked if it is severe especially if symptoms such as fever, bloody stools or lasting for more than three days.