Red flags & when to go in person for Traveler’s Diarrhea in Children

Audience: pediatric

Traveler’s diarrhea is a common illness that children may get when visiting new places, especially where food or water may be different or less clean. It usually causes loose or watery stools and can lead to dehydration if not managed well. Most cases improve with rest, fluids, and simple care at home. However, some signs mean a child needs to be seen by a healthcare provider in person. These include high fever, blood in the stool, signs of dehydration, or if the diarrhea lasts more than a few days. Telemedicine can help families understand symptoms, get advice on care, and decide when to seek in-person care. Always watch for warning signs and keep your child hydrated. This guide helps parents and caregivers know when to use telemedicine and when to seek urgent care for traveler’s diarrhea in children.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• High fever above 38.5°C (101.3°F) — seek in-person care immediately.
• Blood or mucus in the stool — requires prompt medical evaluation.
• Signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, sunken eyes, no tears, or very little urine — urgent in-person assessment needed.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessing mild symptoms and advising on hydration and diet.
• Providing guidance on when to seek in-person care.
• Answering questions about traveler’s diarrhea prevention.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Evaluating severe dehydration or inability to keep fluids down.
• Diagnosing complications like infections requiring antibiotics.
• Managing persistent or worsening symptoms needing physical examination.

What is Traveler’s Diarrhea in Children?

Traveler’s diarrhea happens when a child eats or drinks something contaminated with germs, often while traveling. It causes frequent, loose, or watery stools. Symptoms can include stomach cramps, nausea, and sometimes fever. It usually lasts a few days and often gets better with simple care.

How to Care for Your Child at Home

Make sure your child drinks plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) are best if available. Avoid sugary drinks and dairy if they make symptoms worse. Offer bland foods like rice, bananas, and toast when they feel ready to eat. Keep your child resting and watch their symptoms closely.

When to Use Telemedicine

Telemedicine can help you check symptoms, get advice on home care, and decide if your child needs to see a doctor in person. It is useful for mild cases without warning signs. During a tele-visit, a healthcare provider can guide you on hydration, diet, and symptom monitoring.

Red Flags That Need In-Person Care

If your child has any of these signs, seek medical care in person promptly:

Preventing Traveler’s Diarrhea

Good hand hygiene is key. Encourage frequent handwashing with soap and water. Avoid drinking untreated water or eating raw or undercooked foods in unfamiliar places. Use bottled or boiled water for drinking and brushing teeth when traveling.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have your child’s symptom details ready, including when diarrhea started and stool appearance.
• Note any fever, vomiting, or other symptoms.
• List any medicines or treatments already tried.
• Prepare to describe your child’s fluid intake and urine output.
• Ensure a quiet space with good internet or phone connection for the tele-visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s advice on fluids and diet.
• Monitor your child’s symptoms closely after the visit.
• Watch for any new or worsening red flags.
• Keep a record of your child’s symptoms and hydration status.
• Seek in-person care if advised or if red flags develop.

FAQs

Can I give my child antibiotics for traveler’s diarrhea?

Antibiotics are not usually needed for traveler’s diarrhea in children and should only be used if prescribed by a healthcare provider. Overuse can cause side effects and resistance.

How can I prevent dehydration in my child?

Offer frequent small sips of oral rehydration solutions or clean fluids. Avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks. Watch for signs like dry mouth or fewer wet diapers.

When should I worry about fever with diarrhea?

If your child has a high fever above 38.5°C (101.3°F) or a fever lasting more than two days, seek medical advice promptly.

Is it safe to use telemedicine for my child’s diarrhea?

Telemedicine is helpful for mild cases to get advice and decide if in-person care is needed. However, it cannot replace physical exams needed for severe symptoms or complications.

Sources

1. Traveler's Diarrhea — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. Diarrhea in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
3. Traveler's Diarrhea — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
4. Traveler’s Diarrhea: Clinical Overview — Mayo Clinic.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child shows any red flags or you have concerns, seek prompt medical attention.