Diarrhea Prevention
Wash your hands to prevent the spread of diarrhea. To ensure adequate handwashing:
Wash Hands Frequently:
Wash hands before and after preparing food. Wash your hands after handling raw meat, using the toilet, changing nappies, sneezing, coughing and tasting the nose.
Foam with Soap for at least 20 Seconds:
Rub your hands at least 20 seconds after putting soap in your hands. This is the time to sing "Happy Birthday" twice.
Use Hand Sanitizer:
Use a hand sanitizer if it is not possible to wash it. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if you can not go to the sink. Apply the hand sanitizer as a hand lotion and be sure to cover the front and back with both hands. Use a product that contains at least 60% alcohol.
Vaccination:
With one of two approved vaccines, your child can be protected from rotavirus, the most common cause of diarrhea in children. Ask your baby's doctor to get vaccinated.
Prevent Diarrhea by Travelers:
Diarrhea usually affects people traveling to countries where hygiene is inadequate and the food is contaminated. To reduce your risks:
Look What You Eat:
Eat hot and well-cooked food. Avoid raw fruits and vegetables if you can not peel it yourself. Also, avoid meat and dairy products that are raw or undercooked.
Look What you Drink:
Drink bottled water, soft drinks, beer or wine in the original packaging. Avoid tap water and ice cubes. Use bottled water, even to brush your teeth. Keep your mouth closed while showering.
Drinks based on boiled water, such as coffee and tea, are probably safe. Remember that alcohol and caffeine can make diarrhea and dehydration worse.
Ask your doctor for Antibiotics:
If you travel to a developing country for a long time, ask your doctor if you need to start taking antibiotics before you take them, especially if your immune system is weakened. In some cases, taking an antibiotic may reduce the risk of traveler's diarrhea.
Check the Travel Warnings:
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention maintain a health website for travelers on which disease warnings for various countries are published. If you plan to travel outside the United States, read the warnings and tips to reduce the risk.
If you get diarrhea while traveling seek diarrhea treatment immediately to avoid complications.