Sickness & Medications

Medical Considerations

All travelers should visit their personal physician 4-8 weeks before departure. Talk to your doctor about the following:

Should you require any medication whatsoever, you must provide your own and be able to administer it yourself. Medical supplies in other countries are not reliable or guaranteed.
Bring adequate supplies of all medications in their original containers, clearly labeled. Carry a signed, dated letter from the primary physician describing all medical conditions and listing all medications, including generic names.

Malaria

Insect protection measures are essential in all areas where malaria is reported. The number of cases of malaria has risen sharply in recent years, due in part to internal migration and the spread of irrigation for rice and cotton farming.
Wear long sleeves, long pants, hats and shoes (rather than sandals). Apply insect repellents containing 20-35% DEET (N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide) or 20% picaridin (Bayrepel) to exposed skin (but not to the eyes, mouth, or open wounds).

Drinking Water

We recommend that you always drink bottled or treated water.

Trekking

Trekking is a strenuous adventure and should not be undertaken if you have any health conditions which may put you at risk. You are strongly advised to consult your physician for a thorough medical check-up and clearance before attempting a trek in the mountain. If you are over 50 years old, talk to your doctor about doing a “stress EKG”.

Altitude sickness (for High Altitude Trekking)

Many people will experience the effects of high altitude. Take precautions to avoid altitude sickness if you are prone to it. Be sure to try a hot tea or an infusion of coca leaves on arrival at altitude. During your first day move slowly and eat lightly, resting the first couple of hours. Travel to high altitudes is generally not recommended for those with a history of heart disease, lung disease, or sickle cell disease