Health precautions while visiting the Amazon Region:

Vaccinations are not normally necessary and most problems are usually experienced when visiting the Amazon Region which is home to a variety of poisonous snakes, scorpions and insects. Trekking and bush walks can expose someone to any of these potential hazards. It is very advisable to not venture out alone and travel within a group in case one of you needs emergency assistance.

Standard precautions to take when visiting the region are; using insect repellant and wearing long trousers even in the hot weather to guard from insect bites.

Good protective boots should also be worn to prevent bites from snakes and scorpions. Shake your gear when unpacking just in case any of the small reptiles are hiding in them.

First aid for bites:

Knowing or identifying the snake that bit you is important as this will help in providing the right serum (antidote) to counteract the snake’s poison. Antidotes for most snake bites are sold in shops and pharmacies in many of the nearby villages, and are usually used by locals. First aid for snake bites is to tie a shoelace or firm string on both borders of the bite to slow it from spreading to other parts of the body. You should re-tighten the lace every few minutes and seek medical assistance as soon as possible.