Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
When it comes to public affection, Argentine men are more physically demonstrative
than their North American and European counterparts. Behaviors such as kissing on the
cheek in greeting or a vigorous embrace are innocuous even to those who express un-
ease with homosexuality. Lesbians walking hand in hand should attract little attention,
since heterosexual Argentine women frequently do so, but this would be very conspicu-
ous behavior for men. When in doubt, it's best to be discreet.
Health
Argentina is a modern country with good health and dental services. Sanitation and hy-
giene at restaurants is relatively high, and tap water is generally safe to drink throughout
the country. If you want to make sure, ask '¿
Se puede tomar el agua de la canilla
?' (Is
the tap water drinkable?).
Public health care in Argentina is reasonably good and free, even if you're a foreigner.
Waits can be long, however, and quality inconsistent. Those who can afford it usually opt
for the superior private-care system, and here most doctors and hospitals will expect pay-
ment in cash. Many medical personnel speak English.
If you develop a life-threatening medical problem you may want to be evacuated to your
home country. Since this may cost thousands of dollars, be sure to have the appropriate
insurance before you depart. Your embassy can also recommend medical services.
A signed and dated note from your doctor, describing your medical conditions and med-
ications (with their generic or scientific names) is a good idea. It's also a good idea to
bring medications in their clearly labeled, original containers. Most pharmacies in Argen-
tina are well supplied.
For more specific information on vaccinations to get before traveling to Argentina, see
wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/argentina.htm.
Dengue Fever
Dengue fever is a viral infection found throughout South America. It is transmitted by
Aedes mosquitoes, which prefer to bite during the day time and breed primarily in artificial
water containers such as cans, cisterns, plastic containers and discarded tires. As a res-
ult, dengue is especially common in densely populated, urban environments.
In 2009 several thousand cases of dengue were reported in the northern provinces of
Argentina, with Chaco and Catamarca being hit the worst. There were even a few dozen
cases in Buenos Aires. Fortunately, relatively few deaths resulted. Dengue usually causes
flulike symptoms, including fever, muscle aches, joint pains, headaches, nausea and
vomiting, often followed by a rash. The body aches may be quite uncomfortable, but most
cases resolve uneventfully in a few days.
