Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
For additional protection you can apply permethrin to clothing, shoes, tents and bed
nets. Permethrin treatments are safe and remain effective for at least two weeks, even
when items are laundered. Permethrin should not be applied dir- ectly to skin.
Don't sleep with the window open unless there is a screen. If sleeping outdoors or in
accommodations that allow entry of mosquitoes, use a fine-mesh bed net, preferably
treated with permethrin, with edges tucked in under the mattress. If the sleeping area is
not protected, use a mosquito coil, which will fill the room with insecticide through the
night. Repellent-impregnated wristbands are not effective.
Snake Bites
In Bolivia there are two species of poisonous snakes: pit vipers (rattlesnakes) and coral
snakes. These are found chiefly on the sugar and banana plantations, and in the dry, hilly
regions. In the event of a venomous snake bite, place the victim at rest, keep the bitten
area immobil- ized and move the victim to the nearest medical facility immediately. Avoid
tourniquets, which are no longer recommended.
Sunburn & Heat Exhaustion
To protect yourself from excessive sun exposure, stay out of the midday sun, wear
sunglasses and a wide-brimmed sun hat, and apply sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher, with
both UVA and UVB protection. Sunscreen should be generously applied to all exposed
parts of the body approximately 30 minutes before sun exposure and should be reapplied
after swimming or vigorous activity. Travelers should also drink plenty of fluids and avoid
strenuous exercise in high temperatures.
Water
Tap water in Bolivia is not safe to drink. Vigorous boiling for one minute is the most ef-
fective means of water purification. At altitudes greater than 2000m (6500ft), boil for
three minutes.
Another option is to disinfect water with iodine pills such as Globaline, Potable-Aqua
and Coghlan's, available at most pharmacies. Instructions are enclosed and should be
carefully followed. Or you can add 2% tincture of iodine to one quart or liter of water
(five drops to clear water, 10 drops to cloudy water) and let it stand for 30 minutes. If the
water is cold, longer times may be required. The taste of iodinated water may be improved
by adding vitamin C (ascorbic acid). Iodinated water shouldn't be consumed for more
than a few weeks. Pregnant women, those with a history of thyroid disease and those al-
lergic to iodine should not drink iodinated water.
