This is an important update regarding what is commonly called the Egyptian Tummy Bug.
In Nov 2024, I was in Egypt with my group, travelling on a Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan. In the dining room, at the table next to us, there was a family of four. Over the first two days, I noticed that only three were attending meals.
On the second evening, I overheard the young man explain to the older couple that his wife—their daughter—was again too ill to come to dinner and was not improving. It was clear to me what the issue was.
I introduced myself and asked permission to join them briefly to ask a few questions. It became obvious that the young woman was suffering from the tummy bug. I always carry Antinal, so I gave them a packet and explained how to take it.
The following morning, the young man told me she was already improving. That evening, she was back at the table with her family and they were so grateful for my intervention. The mother even emailed me a couple of days later when they were back home to thank me again.
What puzzled me at the time was that, during our conversation, they told me they had received no intervention at all from the boat staff. I didn’t have time to follow it up with the manager at the time.
Almost a year later, in November 2025, I was inspecting a new Nile boat and speaking with the manager as he showed me around. When we reached the dining room, I asked what their procedure was if a guest didn’t appear for a meal.
He explained:
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One missed meal is noted but ignored, in case the guest is tired or skipping it.
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If the guest misses a second meal, staff ask their companions if something is wrong.
Then he stopped talking.
I prompted him: “And then… what do you do?”
His answer was simple: “Nothing.”
I asked whether, if a guest is vomiting and has diarrhea, it isn’t obvious they have the tummy bug and need Antinal.
He replied: “We are not allowed to give guests any medicine.”
I asked what happens if the guest’s condition worsens.
The answer: We ask whether the guest wants to see a doctor or go to hospital.
And who pays?
The guest does.
I understand that fear of litigation now governs many businesses. But common sense still matters.
This isn’t about blame. It’s about being informed and prepared.
Now this is my advice to all travellers to Egypt — as I also must be careful 😄
What travellers to Egypt now need to be aware of
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Boat and hotel staff are not permitted to give medication, even when the diagnosis is obvious.
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The standard response is escalation, not early intervention: it’s doctor or hospital.
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Medical visits are paid by the guest, not the cruise or hotel.
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Early treatment matters — untreated tummy bug often worsens unnecessarily.
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Antinal is the first-line treatment and is inexpensive and readily available if you have it.
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You should carry Antinal with you from day one, especially on cruises or remote itineraries.
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Do not wait for staff to suggest a solution — they legally can’t.
Steps to Take Before Leaving Home
✅Know the medication
The active ingredient in Antinal is Nifuroxazide. Before travelling, ask your doctor at home — even a quick phone call is enough — or do your own research to confirm that Nifuroxazide is not contraindicated with any medication you are taking. Do NOT believe a recommendation for any medication he can prescribe or you can buy over the counter. The tummy bug is specific to the area and requires specific treatment.
✅Make Sure you have travel and illness insurance – skipping it can cost much more than the premium!
You cannot leave a hospital in Egypt unless you or your insurance settles the bill – and for tourists the bill can be HIGH
✅Plan to buy Antinal immediately
Buy Antinal as soon as you pass your first pharmacy in Egypt, or ask your guide to get it for you on your first tour.
✅Buy two packets
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One to use while you are in Egypt, if needed
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One to take home, in case symptoms appear on the day you leave or the following day
✅Understand the tummy bug before you go
Read my original article so you know what the Egyptian tummy bug is, what causes it, and how to avoid it in the first place.
✅Enjoy your visit and all the lovely food!
Just knowing you have the solution to the Egyptian tummy bug in your pocket allows you the freedom to eat and enjoy everything that appeals to your senses 🙂
You can find many more up-to-date travel tips for Egypt here
Last updated on 27/01/2026 by Marie Vaughan