What are the main signs and symptoms of traveler’s diarrhea?

    Last Updated: October 25, 2023

    Symptoms will vary depending on the infecting pathogen,[1] but tend to include:

    • Loose, watery stools (diarrhea)
    • Abdominal cramping
    • Fecal urgency (a sudden and immediate need to defecate once the urge begins)
    • Nausea
    • Vomiting
    • Malaise
    • Fever
    • Blood or mucus in the stool

    The presence of a high fever (>38.5°C/101°F) or blood/mucus in the stool indicates a more severe case of traveler’s diarrhea warranting medical attention.[2]

    References

    1. ^Leung AKC, Leung AAM, Wong AHC, Hon KLTravelers' Diarrhea: A Clinical Review.Recent Pat Inflamm Allergy Drug Discov.(2019)
    2. ^Steffen R, Hill DR, DuPont HLTraveler's diarrhea: a clinical reviewJAMA.(2015 Jan 6)