Peru: Health Tips
What are the principal health risks?
The principal health risk is outside Lima in the higher elevations where you must take care to avoid
altitude sickness indicated by headaches, dizzyness and low energy, which can become life-threatening
if not treated.
What health precautions should I take?
We strongly recommend you consult your own physician, public health clinic and/or travel clinic for
detailed travel health information. The Peruvian government is taking precautionary measures to limit
all exposure to H1N1 virus among schoolchildren. In support of this effort, our hosts in Peru have requested
that all volunteers provide a letter from a doctor certifying good health and the absence of any H1N1 Flu
symptoms. You may obtain such a letter from your own physician 1-2 days prior to your departure for Peru,
or undergo a brief, non-invasive examination by a local doctor who has made his services available to Global
Volunteers in Peru. Global Volunteers will cover the cost of this simple exam in Peru. You may confirm with
your team leader whether you will be providing your own certification or undergoing the exam in Peru. For
general recommendations, consult the following sources:
Centers for Disease Control
Health Canada Online
Canadian Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade
Travel Health Online
Is the water safe to drink?
We recommend that you bring a water bottle with you, and keep it filled with bottled water that will
be provided to you by the team leader.
Is it safe to eat food purchased from street vendors?
We strongly recommend that you do not purchase food from street vendors.
What type of insurance do you recommend?
We strongly recommend medical insurance that covers you while you are outside your home country, and trip
cancellation insurance. Your travel agent can refer you to travel insurance providers. Global Volunteers
will provide you with emergency medical evacuation insurance.
