Risk / Health Info for Bolivia

Your shots should be up to date before you leave for Bolivia. Consider getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and B, as well as typhoid.

Other viruses are present in Bolivia carried by mosquitoes include malaria, Zika, chikungunya, yellow fever and dengue fever. Avoid getting bitten by using a reliable inset repellent, wearing clothing that covers as much skin as possible, and sleeping under a net or in air-conditioned accommodation. A shot for yellow fever can protect you for life from that mosquito-borne illness.

Also avoid foods that you cannot peel or have not been boiled or cooked.

What medical facilities are there in Bolivia?

Healthcare facilities in Bolivia are not as good as those in Canada. Basic care is available in larger cities, and there is limited ambulance service. Be prepared to pay cash for medical treatment, and have adequate health insurance before you go to Bolivia. Consult your provincial or territorial health authority for more information.

Will I be able to get medication in Bolivia?

Take enough medication in its original container to last your whole trip to Bolivia, and bring the prescription or a letter from your doctor describing your condition. Some commonly prescribed medications are considered narcotics in Bolivia.

Altitude in Bolivia

Parts of Bolivia are higher than 2,400m, and travellers planning to spend time at a high altitude should take steps to protect themselves against the potentially life-threatening acute mountain sickness. Your healthcare provider can help with this.

Dengue fever in Bolivia

There have been cases of the mosquito-borne virus dengue fever in Bolivia. Dengue fever is also known as breakbone fever because of the severe bone, joint and muscular pains it causes, in addition to flu-like fever and headache. There is no vaccine for dengue fever. Avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellents (50% DEET) and by wearing protective clothing. Sleeping with mosquito nets is also recommended.

Malaria in Bolivia

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Bolivia at certain times of year. There is no malaria vaccine, but there are anti-malaria drugs that should be taken before, during and after travelling to certain at-risk countries. Speak with your healthcare provider six weeks before your trip, as not all prophylaxis regimes are appropriate for all regions and all individuals.

Zika in Bolivia

Global Affairs Canada has issued a warning about the risk of contracting Zika in Bolivia. Zika is a viral disease spread by mosquitoes, and infection during pregnancy has been linked to birth defects. Women who are pregnant or planning to get pregnant should take advice before travelling to Bolivia. Zika symptoms include rash, itch, mild fever, headache, red eyes, muscle and joint pains. Avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellents (50% DEET) and by wearing protective clothing. Mosquito nets and air conditioning should be used when sleeping.