UK tourists heading out of Europe and towards South America have been issued an urgent warning by the Foreign Office. The Foreign Office has warned UK holidaymakers, tourists and passengers over heading towards South America amid a “sudden onset” risk.
Warning Brits in Ecuador, the Foreign Office said: “Before you travel check that your destination can provide the healthcare you may need and you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation.
“This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.” It adds: “Call 911 and ask for an ambulance. Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment. You can get emergency assistance and register medical issues using the ECU 911 smartphone application.”
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At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the latest vaccine recommendations for Ecuador and where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page. The Foreign Office said: “See what health risks you’ll face in Ecuador, including Oropouche virus.”
Oropouche virus is spread to humans mainly through the bite of an infected midge (Culicoides paraensis). Some mosquitoes can also be involved in transmission. Work is ongoing to understand the potential risks of OROV infection during pregnancy.
Symptoms of Oropouche virus disease begin four to eight days after an infective bite. TravelHealthPro said: “Onset is sudden, usually with a fever, chills, headache, joint pain and muscle aches. Symptoms typically last for up to seven days. Some people may develop more severe disease, however, including meningitis or encephalitis.”
The FCDO advised in a warning to holidaymakers and passengers on its website: “Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment. You can get emergency assistance and register medical issues using the ECU 911 smartphone application.”
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