Here are some general guidelines to follow to ensure that you stay healthy while traveling in Peru.

Dos and Don'ts

Do
- take plenty of insect repellent containing DEET if you plan to visit the jungle.
- take malaria prevention medicine in prone ridden areas.
- wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
- carry a roll of toilet paper with you because bathrooms are often lacking.
- wear long sleeves and pants from dusk to dawn when you are visiting the jungle and sleep under a mosquito net.

Don't
- drink tap water. Only drink bottled water and ask for drinks without ice (sin hielo).
- eat salads and only eat fruits and vegetables that you can peel first.
- eat food from street vendors.
- eat dairy products unless they have been pasteurized.
- touch animals like monkeys, dogs or cats to avoid diseases such as rabies.
- swim in fresh water. The ocean is better, but first ask a local how safe it is. Some beaches are contaminated.

Vaccinations
There are no vaccinations that are required by law to enter Peru. However, there are some that are recommended: Cholera, Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Diptheria, Typhoid and Yellow Fever. Many of these vaccinations are recommended if you are spending any time in the jungle. Malaria is also common in the Amazon region and you can ask your doctor for malaria tablets.

Check with your doctor at least six weeks prior to traveling because some shots take time to become effective. Ask them what they recommend and the possible side effects of each vaccination. For further details regarding vaccinations for Peru, visit the U.S. Center for Disease Control's website at http://www.cdc.gov/travel/tropsam.htm.

Insurance
It is highly recommended that you take out travel insurance before you leave home. However, hospitals and clinics often ask for cash payment up front. Make sure that you keep all receipts so that you can be reimbursed once you return home. Also, make sure that your travel insurance includes medical evacuation. If you plan on doing any "dangerous sports" such as riding motorcycles, scuba diving or even trekking, ask if those activities are covered. They usually aren't, but you can buy supplemental insurance to cover you.

Emergency
In the event of an emergency, click on the cities below for the names, numbers and addresses of medical clinics throughout Peru.

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