MEDICAL
Though not rigorous, IEC trips can be physically
challenging. As such, a thorough medical examination
is advised. A medical questionnaire is part of
your Pre-Trip Information Package and must be
completed and returned with your final payment
to IEC. The following are recommendations for
your protection:
Tetanus - A current
tetanus inoculation is mandatory to participate
in any IEC trip. Tetanus shots are usually good
for ten years. If you are unsure of your last
inoculation please check with your doctor.
Hepatitis
A - We recommend a vaccination to
protect you against Hepatitis A: 1) Havrix* a
series of two inoculations (the second is administered
6 months later), is good for up to 10 years or
longer, or 2) Immune Globulin - 1 shot that protects
you for 3-6 months.
Malaria
- For those participants on the
Coral Jaguar Expedition, Ultimate Adventure, or Maya
World Extension, you should consider taking malaria
pills (Chloraquine). A program usually starts
two weeks prior to the commencement of your trip
and five weeks after you return home. Dengue Fever
- Transmitted by mosquitoes, symptoms are flu-like.
It is becoming more prevalent in rural and even
urban areas in the tropics. The most important
preventative measures are to wear pants, socks
and a long sleeve shirt in the evening hours or
early morning when mosquitoes are out. Also use
liberal amounts of insect repellent on your clothes.
Typhoid & Polio -
Consult with your physician. It is not considered
a problem in Belize. Please remember that you
are responsible for consulting a medical professional
prior to trip departure regarding all the above
considerations.
**Also,
if you experience any unusual symptoms after returning
home from your trip, please call our office and
let us know. |
