The Hidden Risks of Drinking Water Abroad

When you’re traveling abroad, a simple glass of water can carry unexpected risks. Contaminated water is a leading cause of travel-related illness, causing conditions like traveler’s diarrhea, giardia, hepatitis A, and cholera. These illnesses can ruin your trip and lead to serious health complications if not properly managed. 

The key to staying safe isn’t avoiding water altogether, it’s knowing how to find safe sources, recognize potential hazards, and plan ahead before you leave. By taking a few precautions and preparing in advance, you can keep yourself hydrated and healthy throughout your travels. Here’s what every traveler should know to stay hydrated without getting sick.

Before You Go, Plan for Safe Hydration: Before you even step on the plane, take these steps to ensure safe drinking water during your trip:

• Research Your Destination: Look up water safety information for your destination. A Virtual Travel Clinic appointment can provide up-to-date guidance on whether the tap water is safe to drink and what waterborne diseases are common in the region.
• Get Vaccinated: Vaccines for hepatitis A and typhoid are recommended for many regions with unsafe water. Schedule a travel health consultation with Virtual Travel Clinic to find out which vaccines are necessary for your itinerary.
• Pack a Water Purification Kit: Bring portable water purification tools like water purification tablets or a compact water filter. These are especially useful for hiking, camping, or rural areas where bottled water may not be readily available.
• Choose a Refillable Water Bottle with a Built-In Filter: Opt for a reusable bottle with a high-quality filter designed to remove bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. This is a convenient and eco-friendly way to stay hydrated safely.

On the Ground: Identifying Safe Water Sources: Once you’ve arrived at your destination, be vigilant about your water choices. Here’s what to look for:

• Stick to Bottled or Boiled Water: Bottled water is usually the safest option. Ensure the seal is intact before drinking. If bottled water isn’t available, boil water for at least one minute (three minutes at higher altitudes) to kill bacteria and parasites.
• Be Wary of Ice: Ice is often made from tap water, so avoid it unless you’re certain it was made with purified or bottled water.
• Avoid Tap Water (Even for Brushing Teeth): In regions with unsafe water, use bottled or filtered water for brushing your teeth and rinsing your toothbrush.
• Skip Fresh Juices and Fountain Drinks: These may be diluted with tap water. Stick to canned, bottled, or hot beverages like tea and coffee, which are less likely to be contaminated.
• Eat Foods Prepared with Safe Water: Be cautious of raw foods that may have been rinsed in tap water, like salads or unpeeled fruit.

Signs of Waterborne Illness! Here’s What to Watch For: Despite your best efforts, sometimes contamination happens. Here are common symptoms of waterborne illness to watch for:

• Traveler’s Diarrhea: Watery or loose stools, abdominal cramps, and nausea.
• Giardia: Severe diarrhea, bloating, and fatigue. Symptoms may appear 1-2 weeks after exposure.
• Hepatitis A: Fever, fatigue, nausea, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). Symptoms can take up to 4 weeks to appear.
• Cholera: Severe diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration. Can be life-threatening if untreated.

What to Do If You Get Sick from Contaminated Water: If you start feeling sick and suspect it’s from drinking contaminated water, follow these steps:

• Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: Dehydration is the biggest risk with most waterborne illnesses. Drink small, frequent sips of bottled or purified water. Add oral rehydration salts to help replenish lost fluids and electrolytes.
• Take Anti-Diarrheal Medication: Medications can help reduce symptoms, but avoid them if you have a high fever or bloody stools.
• Seek Medical Help: If symptoms are severe, persistent, or include a high fever, see a doctor immediately. A Virtual Travel Clinic consult can provide guidance on medications and next steps.
• Keep Records: If you need medical treatment, keep receipts and documentation for insurance claims once you’re back home.

Staying Safe After You Return: Some waterborne illnesses, like giardia or hepatitis A, can take weeks to show symptoms. If you feel unwell after returning home, don’t dismiss it as jet lag.

• Visit Your Doctor: Let them know where you traveled and describe your symptoms clearly.
• Submit Insurance Claims Promptly: If you received treatment abroad, submit claims quickly for reimbursement.
• Stay Hydrated: Even after recovering, your body may need extra fluids and electrolytes to fully bounce back.