[Accepted principles for the prevention and therapy of travelers' diarrhea]

Diarrhea is the most frequent health problem in travellers to developing countries. The syndrome is usually caused by an infection acquired by ingesting fecally contaminated food or beverages. Various bacteria, viruses and protozoa may cause traveller's diarrhea, the leading pathogen being enterotoxigenic E. coli. Antimicrobial drug prophylaxis is not recommended in view of the potential side effects. A more sensible approach is self-therapy with anti-motility agents in mild and uncomplicated cases, while for more severe illness an antimicrobial drug may be used. However, in view of the usually mild, self-limited disorder, therapy should be considered optional. Oral rehydration should be instituted when necessary.