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

    Written by:
    Katie Jantz

    Fact-checked

    by:

    Morgan Pfiffner, Graham Walker
    Last Updated: May 16, 2025

    The main signs and symptoms of traveler's diarrhea include loose, watery stools, abdominal cramping, fecal urgency, nausea, vomiting, malaise, fever, and potentially blood or mucus in the stool. A high fever or the presence of blood/mucus indicates a more severe case that requires medical attention.

    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]