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Watching what you Eat and Drink

Traveller's diarrhoea is the most common health problem affecting those travelling to developing countries. It can affect anyone but is especially difficult for the business traveller. It is therefore important to think through the issue of food and water BEFORE you go…

Drinking Clean Water

Boil any drinking water that you are unsure about — or drink bottled water — but always ask to open the bottle yourself in restaurants; checking the seal is in place. If in doubt stick to carbonated water — and make sure it fizzes! If you are boiling your own water, make sure it reaches a good 'rolling' boil for at least 3 minutes. Avoid using electric kettles in lower class hotels, as they are unable to continue 'on the boil' and will not kill off all sources of infection.

Extra caution should be taken in countries where the electricity supply is off at certain times of the day. The break in power often indicates that essential water purification is also not working during that period.

Water filters are an excellent way of removing impurities in water and can be as effective as boiling.

Clean Water on the Road

If you are on the road in a rural area, consider using a compact water purifier system to carry with you. They come in many sizes, including a cup container, and can be easily used while on the road.

In developing countries, order drinks without ice unless you are in a five star hotel and can be sure about the water's source. Avoid roadside food vendors, including ice cream sellers, and if you need a drink take hot tea or coffee, as water needs to reach boiling point for preparation. Also consider carrying your own cup.

Use bottled or boiled water for cleaning your teeth and don't open your mouth to drink water in the shower or swimming pools.

Making sure the Food doesn't make you sick

Avoid food that looks extravagant and has needed a lot of handling to get it that way as well as unpasturized milk, soft cheeses, lukewarm food and empty restaurants!!

Around sea areas in developing countries the water is often contaminated and seafood should be avoided unless you can be sure it has been boiled for a minimum of ten minutes. If you want to eat out or take business associates to lunch, check with them regarding the best places to eat or stick to eating in a five star hotel.

Eat early on if the food in your hotel is served in a buffet style. Food that has been sitting out or kept warm for long periods during the day can be a source of infection. When ordering food in a restaurant, make sure that your food is piping hot when it reaches your plate — infection is easily spread when meat in particular is not heated through. Food, which has been fried or cooked above boiling point, is usually safe to eat. Always order meat "well done" in high risk areas of the world.

Personal Hygiene is very important, as handling can easily spread infection via contact with contaminated food.

If you get diarrhoea - drink plenty of clear, clean fluids. It might be helpful to take diarrhoea medication along with you, as well as some rehydrating fluid. If diarrhoea continues for more than 48 hours or you are unable to drink, or are passing blood - SEEK IMMEDIATE MEDICAL ATTENTION.