Health First!

The last thing we want is a terrible illness to ruin our amazing trip, so we aren't messing around!

Last week, I booked an appointment at MGH’s Travel Clinic. They were fantastic! For a girl who doesn’t have much time, they squeezed me in on my lunch break and I was in and out in a half hour!

I had a 20 minute consultation with Dr. Ryan, who went over everything. He was so wonderful and put all my concerns to rest. Then a quick 3 shots from the nurse and a few prescriptions later, BAM!! Dunzo. So easy!....except about an hour after my shots I had dead arm in both arms for the rest of the day. Owwwwww.

So here’s the dealio with vaccinations when traveling to Peru:

• Routine vaccines are a must. You will most likely have had these shots already, but it is good to just confirm. I thought I was good with my tetanus shot, but needed another one! Every 10 years, you’re due! Then your other ones: flu shot, chickenpox, polio and measles/mumps and rubella (MMR). 
• Hepatitis A-Highly recommended by the CDC and the travel clinic. It is recommended you get your second shot 6 months after the first.
• Hepatitis B- You most likely had these before you went to middle school. Series of three. I remember those bad boys killed. 
• Yellow Fever-This was recommended because we will be traveling to northern Puno. Check!
• Malaria is prevalent in areas we aren't traveling to, so no go on that.

Other then those vaccinations, the doc prescribed me some altitude sickness pills and a another medication that I won’t go into detail about for your own sake. Trust me. 

Another precaution we’re taking is purchasing a bunch of water purifying tablets. Those are a must! No food and water born illnesses please and thank you.  

Disclaimer: This gal is no Doctor! Go see your primary! 

xo-MC