Prevention of Parasitic Diseases

Parasites are living organisms that use other living beings such as humans as a place to live and get their food. Parasites can easily be contracted from ingesting contaminated water or food. You can also get a parasitic infection from an insect bite. Parasites can be so tiny that they can only be seen with a microscope, or they can be worms big enough to be visible to the naked eye. The prevention of parasitic diseases is especially important when traveling to other countries

Water

• Drink water from a municipal supply that has been treated with chlorine or drink bottled water that has not already been open. If you are uncertain about the safety of the water, boil it for one minute and allow it to cool before drinking. This will kill most common waterborne parasites. If you are uncertain of the water supply when traveling in a foreign country, also be wary of ice and drinking glasses that have come in contact with the water.
  If you're unable to boil the water you can treat it with chlorine or iodine. If you collect your water from a stream or lake, filter out any floating matter first and then apply tincture of iodine or iodine tablets available from sporting goods stores. Follow the manufacturer's directions closely to avoid overexposure to iodine. Chlorine is less consistent at killing parasites since its effectiveness varies according to the organic matter in the water. Personal water filters can also be used. The most effective filters will state on the label that they are reverse osmosis filters, certified for cyst removal and have an absolute pore size equal to or less than one micron.

Food

• Avoid parasitic infection by eating food that has been cooked. When traveling abroad do not eat raw foods including raw vegetables and salads. Avoid drinking raw milk or products made from raw milk. Eat food that has been thoroughly cooked and is still hot when served. Wash fruit in clean water and peel it yourself before eating.
  Do not let cooked food sit out at room temperature for several hours after a meal. Food that has cooled to room temperature should be reheated before eating. Be cautious with food purchased from street vendors as this type of food has been determined to carry a greater risk of illness.

Swimming

• Swim in pools that have been properly treated with chlorine. Use caution when swimming in the ocean or in rivers and ponds. Stay out of the water if you have an open cut or scrape, which provides an entry way for parasites. Do not swim in areas that might possibly be contaminated with animal or human feces or in areas near storm drains after a heavy rainfall. Try not to swallow water while swimming, avoid submerging your head and wear nose plugs to prevent parasites such as amoebas from entering your nose.

Hygiene

• Wash your hands after using the restroom or touching infected objects, and after playing with animals and small children. Always wash before eating and if no water is available, use a hand sanitizer that is at least 60 percent alcohol.