Travel Vaccines and Advice for Ecuador

• Typhoid – Typhoid, a bacterial infection, is primarily transmitted through contaminated food, water, or direct contact with infected people. Vaccination is a key preventive measure, recommended for travellers to endemic regions and those at risk due to occupation.
• Hepatitis A – Be sure to protect yourself from hepatitis A, a contagious liver infection caused by HAV, through vaccination. The virus spreads through contaminated food, water, and close contact. Along with vaccination, maintaining proper hygiene and avoiding undercooked shellfish are essential for prevention.
• Yellow Fever – Yellow fever, a viral disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes, causes a range of symptoms, including jaundice and bleeding. Preventing it is crucial. The yellow fever vaccine is administered at least 10 days before travel to endemic areas, providing long-lasting immunity and playing a vital role in controlling the virus’s spread.
• Rabies – The rabies virus is a deadly threat that spreads through bites and scratches from infected animals. Preventing rabies involves timely vaccination, avoiding contact with wildlife and seeking immediate medical attention if bitten. The rabies vaccine is instrumental in developing immunity and safeguarding against this fatal disease.
• Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B prevention relies on vaccination as the most effective measure, recommended for all travellers and critical for healthcare workers. Practicing safe sex and using sterile equipment for body modifications are also key in reducing transmission risks.
• Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are highly infectious diseases that can lead to complications like pneumonia and encephalitis. To combat these threats, vaccination with the MMR vaccine is imperative. This two-dose vaccine not only shields individuals but also contributes to herd immunity, reducing the risk of outbreaks.

Yellow fever vaccination is recommended for travellers to regions in Ecuador that are under 2,300 metres elevation. Travellers are advised to receive the vaccine at least 10 days before arrival in the country. As yellow fever is common in Ecuador, proof of vaccination may be required when entering another country.

In Ecuador, malaria is most common in regions under 1,500 metres elevation, especially in the provinces of Carchi, Cotopaxi, Esmeraldas, Morona-Santiago, Orellana, Pastaza and Sucumbios. Rare cases occur in other provinces. Travellers are advised to take antimalarials to protect themselves from infection. Atovaquone, doxycycline, mefloquine and tafenoquine are recommended for travellers to the region. Malaria parasites in Ecuador are resistant to chloroquine. Speak with your travel health specialist to identify which antimalarial is best for your trip and medical history.

Shield yourself from bug bites with proper attire and EPA-approved repellents such as DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Safeguard your sleep area with bed nets and screens. In case of bug bites, clean the area, resist scratching, and utilize over-the-counter solutions while seeking professional assistance for severe reactions.

When eating abroad, prioritize cooked and hot foods, choose reputable eateries, and practice good hand hygiene. Stick to bottled or sealed beverages, avoid tap water, and enjoy hot drinks or alcohol responsibly. To avoid travellers’ diarrhea, follow these tips: eat well-prepared foods, drink safe water, maintain hand hygiene, consider probiotics, and be selective about local dishes.

Altitude sickness, or acute mountain sickness (AMS), occurs when oxygen levels decrease at high elevations, leading to symptoms like headaches and nausea. Prevent AMS by ascending slowly, staying hydrated, and considering medications like acetazolamide. If symptoms persist or worsen, descend to lower altitudes and seek medical attention if needed.

• Chagas disease (American Trypanosomiasis) – Chagas disease, caused by Trypanosoma cruzi and transmitted by kissing bugs, requires prevention through insecticide control and avoiding the kissing bug.
• Dengue – The PHAC describes dengue fever as a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes, presenting symptoms such as rash and joint pain. Prevention strategies focus on reducing mosquito exposure and breeding grounds. Treatment is supportive, emphasizing the importance of mosquito bite prevention.
• Leishmaniasis – Leishmaniasis is transmitted by sand flies’ bites. To prevent its spread, individuals should use insect repellents, wear long-sleeved clothing and limit outdoor activities during sand fly activity periods. Eliminating breeding sites and early diagnosis are crucial for effective prevention.
• Zika – Zika, a mosquito-borne virus, spreads through mosquito bites, sexual contact, and from mother to child during pregnancy. Preventive measures include using repellent, practicing safe sex, and removing mosquito breeding sites.