In traveler's diarrhea, antibiotics are indicated for moderate-severe illness; which of the following summarizes this approach?

• A. Antibiotics are always required
• B. Probiotics are sufficient
• C. Initial management is fluids and electrolytes; antibiotics used only for moderate-severe illness
• D. No treatment is necessary

Answer: (C)

The key idea is that traveler's diarrhea is managed primarily with fluids and electrolytes to prevent dehydration, and antibiotics are reserved for those with moderate to severe illness. This reflects the typical course of the illness—most cases are self-limited and hydration prevents the main complication, dehydration. Antibiotics can shorten the illness and reduce stool output, but they are not needed for mild disease and unnecessary use risks side effects and antibiotic resistance. So the best summary is to start with rehydration and electrolytes, and use antibiotics only when the illness is moderate to severe. Probiotics alone aren’t a proven substitute for rehydration, and saying no treatment is necessary ignores the dehydration risk. Saying antibiotics are always required overstates their role.