Summer travel season is a time many people look forward to, whether visiting family, exploring new destinations, or traveling internationally.
Unfortunately, travel can also increase exposure to foodborne illnesses and unsafe drinking water, especially in unfamiliar environments.
According to travel health experts, a significant percentage of international travelers experience digestive illnesses during or shortly after trips abroad.
Fortunately, taking a few practical precautions may help reduce the risk of food poisoning while traveling.
What Causes Foodborne Illness?
Food poisoning may result from exposure to harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites, or toxins in contaminated food or water.
Common foodborne pathogens may include:
- Salmonella
- E. coli
- Norovirus
- Campylobacter
- Clostridium perfringens
Higher-risk foods may include:
- Raw or undercooked meat
- Poultry
- Shellfish
- Unwashed fruits and vegetables
- Improperly stored foods
- Food prepared under unsanitary conditions
Because travelers may encounter unfamiliar food preparation standards, caution may become especially important while away from home.
Be Careful With Tap Water and Ice
Contaminated water is one of the most common sources of illness among travelers.
In some countries or regions, local tap water may contain bacteria, viruses, or parasites that visitors are not accustomed to.
When traveling, individuals may consider:
- Drinking bottled or properly filtered water
- Avoiding tap water when its safety is uncertain
- Using bottled water when brushing teeth
- Avoiding beverages containing ice made from local tap water
Even small amounts of contaminated water may potentially lead to illness.
Exercise Caution With Street Food
Street vendors and outdoor food markets are popular attractions in many destinations.
While some vendors maintain excellent safety practices, others may operate without regular inspections or strict food safety standards.
Travelers may want to pay attention to:
- Food temperature
- Cleanliness
- Hand hygiene
- Freshness of ingredients
- Cooking conditions
Foods sitting out for extended periods or prepared under questionable sanitary conditions may increase foodborne illness risk.
Be Careful With Undercooked or Wild Game Meats
Trying local cuisine can be part of the travel experience, but certain foods may carry higher health risks.
Undercooked meats or “bush meat” — a term often referring to wild animal meat — may potentially expose travelers to harmful bacteria, parasites, or other serious illnesses.
Wild animals generally do not receive veterinary care or food safety oversight, increasing potential health concerns.
Travelers may benefit from choosing foods that are:
- Thoroughly cooked
- Freshly prepared
- Served hot
- Properly stored
Wash Hands Frequently
Good hand hygiene remains one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce illness risk while traveling.
Travelers may consider:
- Washing hands regularly with soap and water
- Using hand sanitizer when sinks are unavailable
- Washing hands before meals
- Cleaning hands after public transportation or crowded areas
Frequent handwashing may help reduce exposure to germs encountered during travel.
Schedule a Health Checkup Before Traveling
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) often recommends that travelers schedule medical checkups several weeks before major international trips.
Pre-travel healthcare visits may help individuals:
- Discuss destination-specific health risks
- Review medications
- Obtain recommended vaccinations
- Address chronic health conditions
- Prepare emergency medical plans
Healthcare providers may also offer guidance regarding medications, food safety, and travel precautions based on planned destinations.
Pack Essential Medications
Travelers may benefit from bringing:
- Prescription medications
- Basic first aid supplies
- Anti-diarrheal medication (if appropriate)
- Copies of prescriptions
- Emergency contact information
Keeping medications in carry-on luggage may also help avoid disruptions caused by lost baggage.
Older Adults May Face Higher Risks
Older adults and individuals with certain health conditions may face greater risks from dehydration and complications from foodborne illnesses.
Symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea may become more serious if left untreated.
Seeking medical care promptly during severe illness may help reduce complications.
Additional Travel Health Resources
Individuals interested in learning more about travel health and food safety may visit:
The Bottom Line
Traveling can be exciting and rewarding, but foodborne illnesses may quickly disrupt plans if proper precautions are not taken.
Paying attention to food safety, water quality, hygiene, and travel preparation may help individuals reduce health risks and enjoy safer travel experiences.
Source: National Geographic, Yahoo Life
