Ways To Prevent Amebiasis

Boil Or Treat Nonbottled Water With Iodine

While traveling to tropical regions, individuals are advised to boil or treat nonbottled water with iodine. This ensures it is safe to drink. Generally, it is necessary to boil untreated water for at least two minutes, and this can be done in a kettle or on a stove. In addition to iodine, water can be disinfected using chlorine. Since the disinfection process can take time and skill, it may be best for novices or first-time travelers to tropical regions to avoid drinking any water that is not bottled. Individuals may also need to avoid ice and fountain drinks, as these could potentially be made with untreated water. Travelers with health concerns may wish to opt for drinks in cans, and hot drinks like tea and coffee are typically safe. Wine, beer, and other alcoholic beverages are also safe to consume, although visitors should have these without ice.

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Avoid Eating Street Food

Visitors to foreign countries are typically advised to avoid eating street food. While many street vendors may follow safe practices, it can be very difficult to know for certain. At the very least, food served from trucks or street stalls may not have been properly refrigerated or heated, and it may be left out at room temperature for longer than is safe, allowing it to become a breeding ground for bacteria. Experts recommend that visitors who want to sample local cuisine only do so in restaurants. Individuals who understand the risks and wish to try street food should make sure they watch the preparation of their meal, ensuring it is thoroughly cooked and served steaming hot. If eating street food, the meal should be consumed immediately and not saved as leftovers for another meal or day. Patients should be particularly vigilant for symptoms of food poisoning or potential amebiasis in the hours and days following ingestion of street food. They may wish to make a note of what they ate and when it was consumed. Medical care should be sought if stomach cramps or other digestive concerns develop, especially as these do not typically go away on their own.

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