Ecuador Q&A Forum

Answer #3

I wrote an extensive comment yesterday, regarding malaria and some other health problems in Ecuador.
Unfortunately, I had to cease prior to finishing it, due to other commitments.
You should get a vaccination against Yellow Fever. Just prior to 10 years after the first, another is necessary. (I suggest a medical file be established, with pertinent and current information, including any vaccinations or other medical procedures.
Also, as a medical microbiologist, I recommend strongly that you receive vaccination against the Hepatitus A virus.
Any young children should have every vaccine suggested by your physician. Most physicians, quite honestly, do not know the vaccinations required for living in the Tropics. Go to the Centers for Disease Control web site, and you will read their recommendations. Then, take your list of the necessaries to your physician.
Many counties provide the services – some at no charge, or a reduced cost.
A tetanus shot is absolutely required, and for those 60 years of age and more, a shot providing some reasonably effective protection against “shingles” (herpes zoster virus). Another item of exceptional importance is to have a collection of “Epi-Pen AND Epi-Pen Jr,(for children) Auto-Injectors” ( 0.3 mg epinephrine) available at ALL times This is to prevent life-threatening, deadly anaphylaxis shock. Your physician can issue prescriptions; nearly every USA pharmacy keeps them in stock. The last I purchased were $35.00 each. It is essential that EVERY member of your household have at least two (2) Epi-Pens available, if not more.
They provide immediate automatic intramuscular self-injection, should any person have an allergy reaction of any kind.
Some allergen reactions may be delayed, so any sign of the allergy worsening, use the Epi-Pen. Should a severe allergenic reaction occur, IMMEDIATELY use. It is an auto-injector, as stated that is used by using some at the injection site: near the outer thigh, at 90 degrees angle (perpendicular). NEVER INJECT INTO THE BUTTOCKS> It is designed to penetrate clothing, unless a bare skin site is exposed. Follow the same directions. It requires about 10 seconds to deliver the drug. (most people do not experience pain) After holding the Epi-Pen firmly against the skin for 10 seconds. Remove immediately – the needle (auto-injector) cover will automatically cover the needle. Massage the area with a clean hand (it is wise to carry alcohol prep packs or gel) for ten (10) seconds.
Seek medical attention immediately, taking the used auto-injector with you. Further instructions will be found in the Epi-Pen package, and absolutely MUST be read, understood and followed, including storage temperature and Epi-Pen life. Also, there is a short list of medical conditions.
The manufacturer has a program of enrollment, to inform when the Epi-Pen must be replaced. It is in the package insert. They will inform by email or mail; obviously,email is the best communication method.
Many people know that some allergens can be “outgrown”; most do not know that situations not previously a problem can develop later in life, involving reactions to stinging and biting insects, many foods, exercise, medications or unknown origins.

Answered By: megalodon [42 ]