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06:04
Antigen-Capture Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay for Specific Detection of Mycoplasma pneumoniae
Published on: February 24, 2023
[Turista: travelers' diarrhea]
Johann Cailhol1, Olivier Bouchaud
1Consultation du Voyage et de Médecine Tropicale, Hôpital Avicenne, Bobigny.
Presse Medicale (Paris, France : 1983)
|March 3, 2007
Summary
Travelers' diarrhea, often caused by bacteria like E. coli, affects 40% of travelers. While rehydration is key, safe food practices and handwashing are crucial for prevention.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
- Microbiology
Context:
- Travelers' diarrhea (TD) is a significant health issue affecting approximately 40% of international travelers.
- While usually mild, TD can cause discomfort and, in some cases, chronic conditions, particularly in vulnerable populations.
- Bacterial infections, primarily enterotoxigenic E. coli, are the leading cause of TD.
Purpose:
- To review the causes, treatment, and prevention strategies for travelers' diarrhea.
- To highlight the role of food safety and hygiene in mitigating TD incidence.
- To discuss the potential of new preventive agents and vaccines.
Summary:
- Enterotoxigenic E. coli is a primary cause of TD, with contaminated solid food being a more significant vector than water.
- Effective treatments include antibiotics like quinolones and azithromycin, though rehydration remains the cornerstone of management.
- Preventive measures focus on food hygiene, handwashing, and consuming safely prepared food (cooked and hot).
Impact:
- Quinolones can be used for prophylaxis in high-risk travelers, but broader preventive strategies are needed.
- Emerging preventive anti-infective agents and vaccines targeting enterotoxigenic E. coli are expected to reduce TD incidence.
- Improved traveler education on safe food and hygiene practices is vital for reducing the burden of travelers' diarrhea.
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