Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Vaccinations
No special vaccines are required or recommended for travel to or around the USA. All travelers should be up-to-date on
routine immunizations.
Health Care
In general, if you have a medical emergency, the best bet is for you to find the nearest hospital and go to its emergency
room. If the problem isn't urgent, you can call a nearby hospital and ask for a referral to a local physician, which is usu-
ally cheaper than a trip to the emergency room. Stand-alone, for-profit urgent-care centers can be convenient, but may
perform large numbers of expensive tests, even for minor illnesses.
If you're heading to more remote areas of the state, it pays to be aware of the closest emergency medical services. If
heading into backcountry areas, stop by the local ranger station or visitors center for information.
Wildlife
Common-sense approaches to animal bites and stings are the most effective.
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Wear boots when hiking to protect from snakes.
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Wear long sleeves and pants to protect from ticks and mosquitoes.
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If you're bitten, don't overreact. Stay calm and seek the relevant treatment.
ANIMAL BITES
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Do not attempt to pet, handle or feed any nondomestic animal. Most animal-related injuries are directly related to a
person's attempt to touch or feed the animal.
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Any bite or scratch by a mammal, including bats, should be promptly and thoroughly cleansed with large amounts of
soap and water, followed by application of an antiseptic, such as iodine or alcohol.
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Local health authorities should be contacted immediately for possible rabies treatment, regardless of immunization.
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It may also be advisable to start an antibiotic; wounds caused by animal bites and scratches frequently become infec-
ted.
SNAKE BITES
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There are several varieties of venomous snakes in Colorado; these snakes do not cause instantaneous death, and anti-
venins are available.
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Place a light constricting bandage over the bite, keep the wounded part below the level of the heart and move it as
little as possible.
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Stay calm and get to a medical facility as soon as possible.
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Bring the dead snake for identification if you can, but don't risk being bitten again.
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Do not use the mythic 'cut an X and suck out the venom' trick.
MOUNTAIN LIONS
Chances of encountering an aggressive mountain lion are extremely small, but as humans encroach on their territory at-
tacks are increasing. Avoid hiking alone in prime mountain-lion habitat and keep children within view. If you encounter
one, raise your arms and back away slowly. Speak firmly or shout. If attacked, fight back fiercely.
