Prevention is always better than cure! Parasites that inhibit the gut are microscopic, so avoiding them can be difficult, however having awareness and taking these precautions can significantly reduce your chances of ingesting and being affected by parasites.

• Wash your hands – especially after going to the toilet and before touching food
• Drink filtered water – tap water in Australia is generally safe, however if you have tank water, boil it before drinking
• Avoid raw meats – always ensure chicken is fully cooked

When travelling overseas, extra precaution needs to be taken as many countries do not have the water and food safety standards that Australia is lucky enough to have.

• Drink bottled water (or boil it) – even for washing teeth and rinsing the brush and your mouth
• Avoid ice in drinks (this has as high a risk as water)
• Only eat fully cooked foods
• Avoid raw foods and salads (banana is a safe fruit, if sealed)
• Avoid swimming in unclean water

If you feel unusual symptoms in your gut that haven’t subsided within 24 hours, please see your doctor / GP for tests – and in the case where symptoms persist or are undiagnosed, please obtain a referral to see Dr. Suhirdan.

To make an appointment with Dr. Suhirdan, you can contact us or send a request via our online booking form.