Which organism is a common cause of traveler's diarrhea?

Traveler's diarrhea is primarily associated with the consumption of contaminated food or water while traveling, often in regions with less stringent sanitation practices. Among the organisms commonly linked to this condition, Escherichia coli is frequently identified as the main culprit, particularly a specific strain known as Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC). This strain produces toxins that lead to symptoms such as watery diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and sometimes vomiting, which are characteristic of traveler's diarrhea.

While Giardia intestinalis is certainly a recognized pathogen that can cause gastrointestinal issues, it is more commonly associated with prolonged diarrhea and is often linked to contaminated water sources rather than the immediate, acute onset often experienced with traveler's diarrhea. This distinction makes E. coli the more prevalent cause for travelers experiencing diarrhea shortly after exposure to contaminated environments. In contrast, the other organisms listed, including Salmonella enterica and Campylobacter jejuni, are also known causes of gastrointestinal illness but not as prominently recognized as the primary agents of traveler's diarrhea as E. coli.