--- title: Picked Up a Gut Bug Overseas? Parasites, Testing and Recovery description: Diarrhoea after overseas travel? How to tell gastro from a parasite like giardia, when to see a doctor, how it's treated and how to look after your gut. --- [![HealthBank](https://blog.healthbank.io/hs-fs/hubfs/HB_Logo.png?width=100&height=91&name=HB_Logo.png)HealthBank/Blog](https://blog.healthbank.io) [Blog](https://blog.healthbank.io) [Write for us](https://blog.healthbank.io/write-with-healthbank?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=contributor&utm_medium=nav) [Help centre](https://help.healthbank.io) [Contact](https://help.healthbank.io/how-can-i-contact-you) [Back to HealthBank](https://dashboard.healthbank.io/app/dashboard) [Blog](https://blog.healthbank.io)  ›  Gut health # Diarrhoea After Overseas Travel? Gut Bugs, Parasites and Recovery [![Robbie Clark](https://blog.healthbank.io/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog/Authors/robbie-clark-avatar.png?width=32&height=32&name=robbie-clark-avatar.png)Robbie Clark](https://www.healthbank.io/p/robbie-clark) 27 Oct 2026 Written by [Robbie Clark](https://www.healthbank.io/p/robbie-clark), BExSc (Nutrition), M (Nutr+Diet), Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) and Exercise Scientist · Last updated 19 October 2026 · [6 references](https://blog.healthbank.io/picked-up-a-gut-bug-overseas-parasites-testing-and-recovery#references) The short answer - Most travellers' diarrhoea is mild and settles with fluids. Oral rehydration solution from a pharmacy is the best choice, especially for children and older people.[1](https://blog.healthbank.io/picked-up-a-gut-bug-overseas-parasites-testing-and-recovery#ref-1),[4](https://blog.healthbank.io/picked-up-a-gut-bug-overseas-parasites-testing-and-recovery#ref-4) - Diarrhoea that drags on for weeks, especially pale, greasy stools with bloating and wind, may be a parasite such as giardia.[5](https://blog.healthbank.io/picked-up-a-gut-bug-overseas-parasites-testing-and-recovery#ref-5) - Only a stool test can confirm a parasite, and treatment is a prescription medicine from your doctor.[6](https://blog.healthbank.io/picked-up-a-gut-bug-overseas-parasites-testing-and-recovery#ref-6) - Get help urgently for blood in your poo, signs of dehydration, severe pain or fever.[4](https://blog.healthbank.io/picked-up-a-gut-bug-overseas-parasites-testing-and-recovery#ref-4) It's common to come home from an overseas trip with an upset stomach. Usually it's a short bout of gastro that clears up on its own, but sometimes the symptoms hang around, and a parasite may be the cause. Here's how to tell the difference, when to see a doctor and how to look after your gut while you recover. ## What causes a gut bug after travelling? Travellers' diarrhoea is caused by bacteria, viruses or parasites, usually picked up from contaminated food or water. Most cases are mild and get better with fluids alone. Moderate to severe cases may need antibiotics prescribed by a doctor.[1](https://blog.healthbank.io/picked-up-a-gut-bug-overseas-parasites-testing-and-recovery#ref-1) Some parasites cause symptoms that last much longer. Giardia, for example, can cause symptoms for months if it isn't treated.[5](https://blog.healthbank.io/picked-up-a-gut-bug-overseas-parasites-testing-and-recovery#ref-5) ## How do you know if you have a parasite? Gut parasites can cause symptoms that look a lot like gastro or IBS, which is why they're easy to miss. Giardia, for example, can cause:[5](https://blog.healthbank.io/picked-up-a-gut-bug-overseas-parasites-testing-and-recovery#ref-5) - Diarrhoea, often pale, greasy and foul-smelling - Stomach cramps and bloating - Excess wind - Nausea - Tiredness - Weight loss Symptoms usually start between 3 and 25 days after infection. Some people have no symptoms at all but can still pass the infection on.[5](https://blog.healthbank.io/picked-up-a-gut-bug-overseas-parasites-testing-and-recovery#ref-5) Symptoms alone can't tell you whether a parasite is to blame. The only way to confirm it is a stool test ordered by your doctor.[6](https://blog.healthbank.io/picked-up-a-gut-bug-overseas-parasites-testing-and-recovery#ref-6) Let your doctor know where you travelled, as this helps them decide which tests to order. Get support from a practitioner who treats gastrointestinal conditions Find practitioners on HealthBank who work with IBS and other gut conditions. Many offer a free discovery call, online, by phone or in person. [Find a gut health practitioner →](https://www.healthbank.io/practitioners?specialties%5B%5D=Digestive+Support&specialties%5B%5D=Irritable+Bowel+Syndrome&specialties%5B%5D=Functional+Gut+Issues) ## When should you see a doctor? See your doctor if you have:[4](https://blog.healthbank.io/picked-up-a-gut-bug-overseas-parasites-testing-and-recovery#ref-4) - Diarrhoea that keeps going, or isn't improving after a few days - Blood or mucus in your poo - A fever - Unexplained weight loss - Diarrhoea that wakes you at night Get medical help urgently if you have Severe diarrhoea, signs of dehydration (such as feeling very tired, thirsty, a dry mouth or passing much less urine), heavy bleeding from your bottom, or diarrhoea with severe stomach pain. In an emergency, call 000.[4](https://blog.healthbank.io/picked-up-a-gut-bug-overseas-parasites-testing-and-recovery#ref-4) ## How is a gut bug treated? **Replace lost fluids.** This is the most important step. Oral rehydration solution, available from pharmacies and supermarkets, has the right balance of salts and works better than plain water for children and older people. Sports drinks aren't recommended. Take small, frequent sips if you feel sick.[4](https://blog.healthbank.io/picked-up-a-gut-bug-overseas-parasites-testing-and-recovery#ref-4) **See your doctor about medicines.** Mild travellers' diarrhoea often needs nothing more than fluids. More severe cases may need antibiotics.[1](https://blog.healthbank.io/picked-up-a-gut-bug-overseas-parasites-testing-and-recovery#ref-1) If a stool test finds a parasite, your doctor can prescribe a specific medicine to treat it.[5](https://blog.healthbank.io/picked-up-a-gut-bug-overseas-parasites-testing-and-recovery#ref-5),[6](https://blog.healthbank.io/picked-up-a-gut-bug-overseas-parasites-testing-and-recovery#ref-6) Herbal "parasite cleanses" and supplements don't replace this treatment. ## What should you eat while you recover? While you have symptoms:[4](https://blog.healthbank.io/picked-up-a-gut-bug-overseas-parasites-testing-and-recovery#ref-4) - Keep drinking clear fluids or oral rehydration solution - Eat bland foods such as rice, pasta and crackers until you feel better - Go easy on fatty foods and foods high in insoluble fibre, such as bran - Avoid alcohol, caffeine and drinks with artificial sweeteners Once your symptoms settle, gradually return to your usual diet. You don't need to cut out fruit, dairy or sugar to recover. ## Can probiotics or supplements help? The evidence doesn't support routine use. Gastroenterology experts don't recommend probiotics for most gut conditions outside research. The exception is a few specific strains that may help prevent a particular bowel infection in people taking antibiotics.[3](https://blog.healthbank.io/picked-up-a-gut-bug-overseas-parasites-testing-and-recovery#ref-3) If you're thinking about a probiotic or any supplement, check with your practitioner first. ## Why do gut symptoms sometimes last after the infection clears? Some people have ongoing symptoms such as bloating, pain and changes in bowel habits after the infection has gone. This is called post-infection IBS. About 1 in 10 people develop IBS-type symptoms within a year of a gut infection, and the risk is higher after a parasitic infection, at around 4 in 10.[2](https://blog.healthbank.io/picked-up-a-gut-bug-overseas-parasites-testing-and-recovery#ref-2) If your symptoms continue after treatment, talk to your practitioner. IBS can often be managed with changes to your diet, such as a low FODMAP diet guided by a dietitian. Get support from a practitioner who treats gastrointestinal conditions Find practitioners on HealthBank who work with IBS and other gut conditions. Many offer a free discovery call, online, by phone or in person. [Find a gut health practitioner →](https://www.healthbank.io/practitioners?specialties%5B%5D=Digestive+Support&specialties%5B%5D=Irritable+Bowel+Syndrome&specialties%5B%5D=Functional+Gut+Issues) ## How can you avoid a gut bug when you travel? - **Wash your hands well** with soap and running water after using the toilet and before preparing or eating food.[6](https://blog.healthbank.io/picked-up-a-gut-bug-overseas-parasites-testing-and-recovery#ref-6) - **Be careful with water** where it may not be safe. Avoid unboiled tap water: boiling kills giardia, but purification tablets may not kill all parasites.[6](https://blog.healthbank.io/picked-up-a-gut-bug-overseas-parasites-testing-and-recovery#ref-6) It's also sensible to skip ice and brush your teeth with bottled or boiled water. - **Choose freshly cooked food** and avoid uncooked food where hygiene or water may be a problem.[6](https://blog.healthbank.io/picked-up-a-gut-bug-overseas-parasites-testing-and-recovery#ref-6) - **See your doctor before you go** for advice about the countries you're visiting. If you do get sick, help stop it spreading. Don't prepare food for others while you have symptoms, stay away from childcare, school or work until 24 hours after the diarrhoea has stopped (48 hours if you work with food), and avoid swimming pools for two weeks.[5](https://blog.healthbank.io/picked-up-a-gut-bug-overseas-parasites-testing-and-recovery#ref-5),[6](https://blog.healthbank.io/picked-up-a-gut-bug-overseas-parasites-testing-and-recovery#ref-6) ## Frequently asked questions ### How long does travellers' diarrhoea last? Most mild cases settle on their own with fluids. If yours isn't improving after a few days, or you have warning signs such as blood in your poo or a fever, see your doctor.[1](https://blog.healthbank.io/picked-up-a-gut-bug-overseas-parasites-testing-and-recovery#ref-1),[4](https://blog.healthbank.io/picked-up-a-gut-bug-overseas-parasites-testing-and-recovery#ref-4) ### Can you have a parasite without symptoms? Yes. Some people with giardia have no symptoms but can still pass it on to others.[5](https://blog.healthbank.io/picked-up-a-gut-bug-overseas-parasites-testing-and-recovery#ref-5) ### How do you test for a gut parasite? Your doctor can order a stool test, which is the only way to confirm a parasite.[6](https://blog.healthbank.io/picked-up-a-gut-bug-overseas-parasites-testing-and-recovery#ref-6) ### Can I go back to work with giardia? Wait until 24 hours after your diarrhoea has stopped, or 48 hours if you work with food.[5](https://blog.healthbank.io/picked-up-a-gut-bug-overseas-parasites-testing-and-recovery#ref-5) ### Should I take a probiotic after a gut bug? It isn't routinely recommended. Check with your practitioner before taking one.[3](https://blog.healthbank.io/picked-up-a-gut-bug-overseas-parasites-testing-and-recovery#ref-3) ## References **Research (PubMed)** 1. Riddle MS, Connor BA, Beeching NJ, et al. Guidelines for the prevention and treatment of travelers' diarrhea: a graded expert panel report. *J Travel Med.* 2017;24(1):S57–S74. [PubMed 28521004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28521004/) 2. Klem F, Wadhwa A, Prokop LJ, et al. Prevalence, risk factors, and outcomes of irritable bowel syndrome after infectious enteritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. *Gastroenterology.* 2017;152(5):1042–1054.e1. [PubMed 28069350](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28069350/) 3. Su GL, Ko CW, Bercik P, et al. AGA clinical practice guidelines on the role of probiotics in the management of gastrointestinal disorders. *Gastroenterology.* 2020;159(2):697–705. [PubMed 32531291](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32531291/) **Australian guidelines** 1. healthdirect. Diarrhoea. [View source](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/diarrhoea) 2. healthdirect. Giardiasis (giardia). [View source](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/giardiasis) 3. NSW Health. Giardiasis fact sheet. [View source](https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/factsheets/Pages/giardiasis.aspx) *This article is general information, not medical advice. Speak with your doctor or practitioner about your own situation.* [Gut health](https://blog.healthbank.io/tag/gut-health) [![Robbie Clark](https://blog.healthbank.io/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog/Authors/robbie-clark-avatar.png?width=72&height=72&name=robbie-clark-avatar.png)](https://www.healthbank.io/p/robbie-clark) Written by **[Robbie Clark](https://www.healthbank.io/p/robbie-clark)** Robbie is a Sydney-based Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) and Exercise Scientist with over 17 years of experience. He holds a Bachelor of Exercise Science (Nutrition) and a Master of Nutrition and Dietetics, and is the Director and Co-founder of HealthBank. [Book a free 15-min call](https://dashboard.healthbank.io/booking/attendance-modes?practitionerId=7a900b23-04a3-4c3c-b14e-e3405c1af6d7&consultationTypeId=4e536270-c479-40a5-af89-691502f4578d) [View Robbie's profile →](https://www.healthbank.io/p/robbie-clark) ## Related articles ### [Gut health What Is the Low FODMAP Diet? A Beginner's Guide for IBS What is the low FODMAP diet? How it eases IBS symptoms, the 3 steps, how long to follow it, and which foods ... Read article →](https://blog.healthbank.io/low-fodmap-diet-a-beginners-guide-for-ibs) ### [Gut health Are Fermented Foods Good for Your Gut? What the Evidence Says Are fermented foods good for your gut? What the research shows for yoghurt, kefir, kimchi and sauerkraut, how ... Read article →](https://blog.healthbank.io/fermented-foods-and-gut-health-what-the-evidence-says) ### [Gut health What Are Prebiotics? Foods, Benefits and How They Differ From Probiotics What are prebiotics? 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