Key Vaccines for Travelling to Peru
Several vaccinations are recommended for travellers visiting Peru, depending on your itinerary and activities:
Hepatitis A is spread through contaminated food and water, making it one of the most common illnesses for travellers. The vaccine is recommended for all travellers to Peru, especially those who plan to eat street food or visit rural areas.
Hepatitis B is transmitted through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids. It’s advisable for travellers who may need medical treatment or participate in high-risk activities, such as getting tattoos or piercings.
Typhoid fever is another food- and water-borne illness. The typhoid vaccine is recommended for travellers visiting areas with poor sanitation or those staying in rural locations.
Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Polio
Ensure you are up to date with the combined TDP vaccine to protect against tetanus, diphtheria, and polio, particularly if you’ll be spending time in rural or remote areas.
While rabies is not widespread in Peru, those who will be working with animals, trekking in rural regions, or visiting remote areas should consider getting the rabies vaccine.
Travellers heading to certain parts of the Amazon rainforest in Peru, such as the regions of Loreto, San Martín, Ucayali, and Madre de Dios, may need the yellow fever vaccine. The vaccination is a legal requirement for entering some jungle areas, and proof may be requested upon entry.
Altitude Sickness in Peru
One of the most significant health risks for travellers to Peru is altitude sickness. Destinations like Cusco, Machu Picchu, and Lake Titicaca are located at high altitudes, where the air is thinner and oxygen levels are lower.
Symptoms of Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of fitness level, and symptoms usually begin within a few hours of ascending to a higher altitude. Common symptoms include:
Headaches
Nausea
Dizziness
Fatigue
Shortness of breath
Loss of appetite
Severe cases of altitude sickness can lead to serious complications like pulmonary or cerebral edema, which are medical emergencies.
Preventing Altitude Sickness
Ascend slowly: If possible, give your body time to adjust to higher altitudes. Spend a few days at moderate altitudes before heading to higher elevations.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help your body acclimatise.
Avoid alcohol and heavy meals: These can worsen the symptoms of altitude sickness.
Medication: In some cases, your healthcare provider may prescribe medication, such as acetazolamide, to help prevent altitude sickness. It’s best to discuss this during your pre-travel consultation.
If symptoms persist or worsen, it’s essential to descend to a lower altitude and seek medical attention immediately.
Insect-Borne Diseases in Peru
Malaria risk in Peru is primarily confined to jungle areas, such as the Amazon region. If your travel plans include visiting these areas, taking antimalarial medication is recommended. Use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and trousers, and sleep under mosquito nets to reduce your risk.
Dengue and Zika
Both dengue fever and Zika virus are transmitted by mosquitoes and present a risk in Peru, particularly in tropical and semi-urban regions. There is no vaccine for either disease, so it’s important to take mosquito bite prevention measures.
Food and Water Safety in Peru
Food and water safety are important concerns for travellers to Peru:
Drink bottled or purified water only.
Avoid ice in drinks unless you’re certain it’s made from purified water.
Be cautious with street food, opting for hot, freshly cooked meals.
Booking Your Vaccinations for Peru at Our Birmingham Clinic
Our Birmingham travel clinic offers all the recommended vaccinations for Peru, including yellow fever and rabies. We also provide expert advice on altitude sickness prevention and how to stay healthy during your trip. Whether you’re heading to the jungle, the mountains, or the cities, we’ll help you prepare for a safe and enjoyable journey.
Book your vaccination appointment today by contacting us online or by phone.
FAQ
Do I need the yellow fever vaccine if I’m only visiting Machu Picchu?
No, yellow fever vaccination is not required for visitors to Machu Picchu or other high-altitude areas like Cusco. It’s recommended only for those travelling to jungle areas such as Loreto and Madre de Dios.
How can I prevent altitude sickness in Peru?
To prevent altitude sickness, ascend slowly, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and consider taking medication like acetazolamide. If symptoms appear, descend to a lower altitude immediately.
What is the malaria risk in Peru?
Malaria is a risk in the jungle regions of Peru, such as the Amazon. If you’re visiting these areas, antimalarial medication is recommended, along with mosquito bite prevention.
When should I get vaccinated before travelling to Peru?
It’s best to get vaccinated at least four to six weeks before your trip to ensure full protection. However, even last-minute travellers should visit our clinic for necessary vaccinations.
Can children receive the rabies vaccine for travel to Peru?
Yes, the rabies vaccine is safe for children, particularly if they will be spending time in rural areas or exposed to animals.
Conclusion
Travelling to Peru is an exciting adventure, but it’s important to take the necessary health precautions. Our Birmingham travel clinic provides all the vaccinations you need, along with expert advice on altitude sickness and mosquito-borne diseases. Book your consultation today to ensure a safe and healthy trip to Peru.