Has anyone taken Dukoral to travel?

[guitarlvr]

Hi:
I have been living with Ulcerative Colitis for many years. I have not travelled much since being diagnosed but have recently decided to take a trip to The Caribbean. I asked my gastroenterologist if he feels I should take Dukoral before I leave to try to prevent traveller's diarrhea or if it is not recommended for someone with UC. The doctor said he had to look into it and I haven't heard back from him yet. I am leaving in a few weeks and Dukoral has to be taken at least two weeks prior to travelling. Just wondering if anyone here has spoken to their doctor about Dukoral or has taken it before travelling? I am concerned that it actually may cause my UC to flare up rather than provide prevention.
Any information would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks!

 

[Rebecca85]

Personally, I wouldn't fancy it. Quick research suggests that good food hygiene, not drinking local water (only bottled) etc are just as good for stopping you getting ill. And taking oral rehydration salts in the event that you do become ill, and I would also seek medical attention promptly.

 

[guitarlvr]

Hi:
Thanks for your reply Rebecca. I have also done the research on what precautions to take with food, water etc., and I will ensure I do these things. I was just hoping I could hear from someone who has taken Dukoral or have been advised whether to or not to by their doctor since I haven't had any feedback from mine. I am going to the Dominican Republic where there was a small outbreak of Cholera last year due to their proximity to Haiti. I don't plan on eating or drinking anything off the resort but I thought if taking Dukoral would give me some extra protection then I would do it. However, I can't find any information as to whether someone with UC or any IBD should avoid taking this oral vaccine.
If anyone has had any experience with this I would appreciate hearing from you.
Thanks very much!

 

[Rebecca85]

The dominican is where I went just after being diagnosed! Loved it! Hope you have as good a time as I did if you get chance, the 'safari' trips are brilliant, you get to go and see the real island not just the touristy bits. And you have to get some mama juana (not to be confused with mari juana!) to bring home!

 

[scottmyster]

HI Guitarlvr, I was just wondering if you have taken your Twinrix shots yet to prevent hepatitis A, B, and C, and other infections this is very important because if you do your good for 10 years. I have crohn's and have taken Dukoral when i went to Puta d' Cana in the Dominican Republic and had no side effects from the medication. Like Rebecca said drink bottled water only but, if you are having a drink they supply the ice cubes but, if you are Twinrix vaccined that shouldn't matter. Try to stay away from spicy foods if you can and anything unknown you should be ok. and try some mama juana like Rebecca said and you will love it. Cheers on your trip, play safe and you should be ok. Enjoy the beach and warm water and warm days and tropical nights.

 

[Rebecca85]

If you are in a good hotel, the ice cubes will be safe, as they should use bottled water. Our hotel had it's own mini treatment / filtering plant for the taps, meaning it was Ok to brush your teeth etc with tap water. Our rep told us even the locals can't drink local water, and it's true even in the most remote settlements they had those big water cooler things.