Health Tip: Prevent Traveler's Diarrhea

Don't use tap water for drinking, ice or brushing teeth

(HealthDay News) -- If you're visiting a country where the water may not be germ-free, you can take steps to preserve your vacation or business trip by preventing traveler's diarrhea.

The American Academy of Family Physicians offers these suggestions:

• Don't drink or brush your teeth with water from the tap, and avoid ice unless you know it was made with purified water.
• Make sure the seal is intact on any bottle of purified water before you drink.
• Avoid consuming any unpasteurized dairy foods or drinks, as well as any fruits or vegetables that can't be peeled.
• Avoid leafy vegetables (such as lettuce or spinach) and fruit salad.
• Don't eat raw or rare meat, or seafood.
• Don't buy food off the street.

-- Diana Kohnle

Last Updated: June 22, 2012

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