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Amebic Dysentery in Indonesia

Amebiasis is a parasitic disease found worldwide, especially in areas with poor sanitation, tropical areas and/or places where people live in crowded conditions.

People are infected via the fecal-oral route, by ingesting the parasite’s cyst. Cysts are present in the feces of an infected person. Food and water can also be contaminated with the parasite.

Approximately 10 percent of those infected become ill, usually within a month. Symptoms include stomach pain, diarrhea that may be bloody and painful, weight loss and fever. In rare cases, the disease can move through the blood to organs outside of the intestinal track like the liver, lungs or brain.

It is treated with antibiotics. Avoid using antidiarrheal medications, which may make the condition worse.

There is no vaccine for amebiasis. Prevention is through hygiene and careful selection of food and water.

Download these Medical Notes on Amoebic Dysentery from International SOS. New

See related articles on Gastroenteritis, Typhoid, Intestinal Worms and and food preparation tips.

If you have medical-related questions about living in Indonesia to ask of medical professionals, see Ask the Experts.

We trust this information will assist you in making correct choices regarding your health and welfare. However, it is not intended to be a substitute for personalized advice from your medical adviser.

Our appreciation to the Coordinating Doctors of International SOS, an AEA Company who have contributed this article in response to a health threat faced by expatriates in Indonesia.

Last updated January 17, 2017