In Reply to: If you,ve had the real thing.... posted by Vicki M on Thursday, 17. March 2005 at 21:12 Bali Time:
I don't take anything to "prevent" it.
Not into red cordial, not interested in taking Travelan or the new cholera/BB "vaccine" (name escapes me)
I take the usual precautions of maintaining personal hygiene (washing hands etc) but you have no control over food preparation or anothers personal hygiene you are in contact(or the food is)
Over many trips my kids & myself have had mild travellers Diarrhoea which has lasted 24-48 hrs with varying symptoms.
Treated with Lomitil, rehydration & white rice /dry cracker biscuit diet when ready to eat.
After 24-48 hrs all back to normal.
Last trip, Severe Travellers Diarrhoea required antibiotics (after letting it go for about 4 days)
For mild travellers Diarrhoea (the one that lasts about 24 hrs & is often just caused by change in diet, excess alcohol etc)Imodium or Lomotil are of use after letting as much pass through the system as you can.
For Severe Travellers Diarrhoea, Bacterial Dysentery,Giarda etc (the real Bali Belly)antibiotics (tablet or shot) is the only thing that is going to work to get rid of the bacteria.
Imodium will slow you down at times but the problem will remain.
I don't go on holiday wondering if I will or won't get BB or worrying about it beforehand.
I do however take the usual precautions while I'm there & pack the medications which may be needed.