The most common reason visitors see a doctor in Bali is also the most preventable. Here is how to stay well — and rehydrate properly if it happens.
Traveller’s diarrhoea — known locally as “Bali belly” — is the single most common reason visitors see a doctor on the island. It is usually caused by food or water contaminated with bacteria your gut is not used to, and while it rarely lasts more than a few days, dehydration is the real risk in a tropical climate.
Lowering your risk
- Drink sealed bottled or filtered water, and skip ice you are unsure about
- Choose food that is freshly cooked and served hot
- Peel fruit yourself and wash your hands often
- Be cautious with raw salads and unpasteurised dairy
If it happens
Rest and rehydrate with oral rehydration salts — plain water alone does not replace the salts you lose. Ease back onto simple, bland foods as your appetite returns. Most cases settle on their own, but see a doctor if you have a high fever, blood in your stool, severe abdominal pain, or signs of dehydration such as dizziness and passing little urine — especially in children.
BIMC’s clinics can assess you quickly, provide IV fluids if you are dehydrated, and prescribe the right medication so you can get back to your holiday.