A Traveler’s Guide by Hey Doctor Traveling through the Andes is an unforgettable experience. Destinations such as Cusco, Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, La Paz, Huaraz and high-altitude trekking routes attract thousands of travelers every year. However, arriving at high altitude too quickly can cause *Altitude Sickness*, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Understanding how to acclimatize and recognize the warning signs can help you enjoy your trip more safely. What Is

A Traveler’s Health Guide by Hey Doctor Traveling through Central and South America is an incredible experience. From beaches and jungles to mountains and cities, every destination offers something different. But traveling also means being exposed to unfamiliar environments, food, water and microorganisms. Good hygiene is one of the simplest ways to reduce your risk of getting sick during your trip. Why Is Hygiene So Important? Poor hygiene can increase your exposure to bacte

A Traveler’s Guide by Hey Doctor What Is Salmonella? Salmonella is a type of bacteria that can cause an infection called salmonellosis. It is one of the common causes of foodborne illness and can cause diarrhea, fever, stomach cramps, nausea and sometimes vomiting. Most healthy people recover within several days, but the infection can sometimes become serious, particularly when dehydration or complications occur. How Do Travelers Get Salmonella? Salmonella is mainly transmitt

A Traveler’s Guide by Hey Doctor What Is Cutaneous Larva Migrans? Cutaneous Larva Migrans (CLM), sometimes called creeping eruption, is a parasitic skin infection caused by larvae of hookworms that normally infect dogs and cats. The larvae can live in contaminated sand or soil. When bare skin comes into contact with contaminated ground, the larvae can penetrate the skin and begin to move through its upper layers. Where Can Travelers Get It? CLM occurs mainly in *tropical and

Traveler’s Guide by Hey Doctor What Is Malaria? Malaria is an infectious disease caused by parasites transmitted through the bite of infected *Anopheles* mosquitoes. It can cause fever, chills, headache, sweating, muscle aches, nausea and severe weakness. Without proper treatment, malaria can become serious and potentially life-threatening. *Where Is Malaria Found?* Malaria is not present throughout every country or tourist destination. Risk varies according to the specific r

A Traveler’s Guide to South & Central America What is Yellow Fever? Yellow fever is a viral disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes. It occurs mainly in tropical areas of Africa and Central and South America and can range from a mild illness to a severe, potentially life-threatening infection. The incubation period is usually 3-6 days. Early symptoms may include fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, nausea, vomiting, weakness, and loss of appetite. Most people recover