Request an appointment Health Risks Health Alerts
Request an appointment Health Risks Health Alerts

Overview

Bolivia is a land-locked country of western South America with an area of over one million sq. kms. Most of the 8 million population lives on the Altiplano, a plateau between two ranges of the Andes and over half depend on agriculture for their living.

The climate varies with altitude, ranging from consistently warm and damp in the north-eastern rainforest of the Amason Basin to summer drought conditions in the south for four to six months annually. In the higher stretches of the Andes mountains, conditions can be sub-arctic.

Pre-travel Preparation Will Help Protect Your Health While You Are Away

Pre-travel preparation will help keep you safe and healthy while you are away. Please consult the Travel Doctor-TMVC before you travel overseas. We will provide specific recommendations tailored to your itinerary. Our doctors will assess and advise you on your risks, and recommend appropriate vaccination and medication to minimise your risk of becoming seriously unwell on your trip.

Altitude Sickness

Altitude illness affects many travellers visiting mountainous regions or undertaking high altitude treks, in some cases with very serious consequences. Medication can be used to facilitate the process of acclimatisation to the rarefied atmosphere at high altitudes. Before your departure, it is important to discuss your specific risk with a doctor that understands the effects of high altitude travel.

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Insect Avoidance

There are a number of viruses and illnesses that are contracted through insects such as fleas, ticks and flies. Mosquitoes however are the biggest culprit of spreading insect borne diseases. Ensure you a prepared and read up on our insect avoidance tips.

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Safe Eating and Drinking Practices

One of the great pleasures of travel is sampling the local cuisine. However, contaminated food and beverages are a common cause of traveller’s diarrhoea and other gastrointestinal illnesses. Safe eating and drinking practices are essential in minimising your risk of contracting traveller’s diarrhoea.

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Cold Climates

If you are travelling to extremely cold destinations including mountainous regions and snow-flaked landscapes begin exercising to prepare your body six to eight weeks before departure. Cold temperatures are not something to be trifled with, ensuring you are dressed appropriately and know the warning signs for frostbite and hypothermia are critical.

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