Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
A number of water filters are on the market. Those with smaller pores (reverse osmosis
filters) provide the broadest protection, but they are relatively large and are readily
plugged by debris. Those with larger pores (microstrainer filters) are ineffective against
viruses, although they remove other organisms. Manufacturers' instructions must be care-
fully followed.
Women's Health
There are English-speaking obstetricians in Bolivia, listed on the US Embassy website
ICIANSLIST1.pdf). However, medical facilities will probably not be comparable to those
in your home country. It's safer to avoid travel to Bolivia late in pregnancy, so that you
don't have to deliver there.
If pregnant, you should avoid travel to high altitudes. The lower oxygen levels that oc-
cur at high altitudes can slow fetal growth, especially after the 32nd week. Also, it's safer
not to visit areas where yellow fever occurs, since the vaccine is not safe during preg-
nancy.
If you need to take malaria pills, mefloquine (Lariam) is the safest during pregnancy.