Indonesian actor Verrel Bramasta was supposed to enjoy his holiday in Bali this week. However, as fate would have it, the 26-year-old thespian was hospitalized instead due to – wait for it – “Bali belly,” AKA traveler’s diarrhea.
On Instagram, Verrel (@bramastavrl) posted a picture of himself on a hospital bed, along with the caption “Bali belly” in the story. His sister, Athalla Naufal, regrammed the story and wished her brother speedy recovery.
Verrel’s friend, Jordan Vincentt, confirmed that the son of former Miss Indonesia Venna Melinda started having diarrhea after munching on ice cubes at an unnamed dining place.
“Please wish him good health,” Jordan said.
This celebrity’s bowel movements have received widespread coverage because he was inflicted with something that anecdotally mostly affects foreign travelers on the island. Most recently, Irish tourist Tammy Whelan opened up about her horrible experience with Bali belly on TikTok, claiming that she even “hallucinated” at some point.
@tammywhelan8 Bali belly is no joke whatsoever 😭😭 #balibelly #bali #travellife #southeastasia ♬ original sound – Tammy’s travels 🌎🌈☀️
General practitioner Dr. Ida Bagus Jagannatha told Coconuts Bali that, while Bali belly is more common amongst foreigners, Indonesians may be susceptible to the condition if they are not used to eating street food, for instance.
So what to do when you get Bali belly, doc?
“Stop whatever you’re eating and make sure you get enough fluids because hydration is key. Take one oral rehydration electrolyte sachets (locally known as oralit) mixed with clean drinking water after every episode of diarrhea or vomiting,” said Jagannatha, who added that patients should take zinc supplements for the next 10 days after diagnosis.
“Over the counter diarrhea medicine can help with symptoms. See a doctor if you feel lethargic or when the symptoms get worse.”
Jagannatha added that travelers should avoiding drinking tap water in Bali, let alone water coming out of a hose.
As for ice cubes, many restaurants in Bali (and Indonesia in general) often get theirs from unsanitary water sources.
Bottled water, despite its environmental flaws, should keep one hydrated without the Bali belly risk.
