Azithromycin (Traveler's Diarrhea)

Overview

Traveler's diarrhea is the most common travel-related illness, affecting an estimated 30–70% of international travelers according to the CDC. The risk is highest in South and Southeast Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, and parts of Latin America, where contaminated food and water may expose travelers to bacterial, viral, or parasitic pathogens.

Azithromycin targets the most common bacterial causes, including Campylobacter, enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC), and Shigella. Unlike fluoroquinolones, it retains activity against Campylobacter strains prevalent in Asia. It is typically taken as a single 1,000 mg dose or as a 500 mg daily course for 3 days, depending on illness severity and provider guidance.

The CDC recommends self-treatment with Azithromycin when traveler's diarrhea is incapacitating — meaning it prevents normal travel activities — or when accompanied by fever or bloody stools. Having a course on hand before departure allows travelers to begin treatment immediately without searching for a clinic or pharmacy abroad.

Wandr Health vs. a traditional travel clinic

Other travel medications

Frequently asked questions