Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Bee and wasp stings Anyone with a serious bee or wasp allergy should carry an injection of adrenalin (eg an Epipen).
For others pain is the main problem - apply ice to the sting and take painkillers.
Skin Problems
Fungal rashes There are two common fungal rashes that affect travellers. The first occurs in moist areas, such as the
groin, armpits and between the toes. It starts as a red patch that slowly spreads and is usually itchy. Treatment involves
keeping the skin dry, avoiding chafing and using an antifungal cream such as Clotrimazole or Lamisil. The second,
Tinea versicolor, causes light-coloured patches, most commonly on the back, chest and shoulders. Consult a doctor.
Cuts and scratches These become easily infected in humid climates. Immediately wash all wounds in clean water and
apply antiseptic. If you develop signs of infection (increasing pain and redness), see a doctor.
Sunburn
Even on a cloudy day sunburn can occur rapidly. Always adhere to the following:
» use a strong sunscreen (factor 30) and reapply after a swim
» wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
» avoid lying in the sun during the hottest part of the day (10am to 2pm)
» be vigilant above 3000m - you can get burnt very easily at altitude
If you become sunburnt, stay out of the sun until you have recovered, apply cool compresses and, if necessary, take
painkillers for the discomfort. Hydrocortisone cream (1%) applied twice daily is also helpful.
CARBON-MONOXIDE POISONING
Some mountain areas rely on charcoal burners for warmth, but these should be avoided due to the risk of fatal
carbon-monoxide poisoning. The thick, mattress-like blankets used in many mountain areas are amazingly warm
once you get beneath the covers. If you're still cold, improvise a hot-water bottle by filling your drinking-water
bottle with boiled water and covering it with a sock.
Women's Health
For gynaecological health issues, seek out a female doctor.
Birth control Bring adequate supplies of your own form of contraception.
Sanitary products Pads, rarely tampons, are readily available.
Thrush Heat, humidity and antibiotics can all contribute to thrush. Treatment is with antifungal creams and pessaries
such as Clotrimazole. A practical alternative is a single tablet of Fluconazole (Diflucan).
Urinary-tract infections These can be precipitated by dehydration or long bus journeys without toilet stops; bring suit-
able antibiotics.
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