Other Health Hazards
HIV and AIDS (SIDA, in Spanish) are not as widespread in Ecuador as in certain other parts of South America, but they are on the increase, with around 20,000 Ecuadorians having contracted HIV. Unprotected sex is the most common form of transmission. Condoms (condones or preservativos) are not as widely available as in Western countries - it's a good idea to take your own supply if you're worried about the safety of unfamiliar brands. Not all hospitals screen blood adequately or have enough sterilized disposable needles, so it's also advisable to carry a supply of sterile syringes in your first-aid kit. At some point you're bound to come across unfriendly dogs , especially if you're a hiker, as they're often used in rural communities to deter thieves. Though they may act tough, they seldom attack. If a dog snarls and bares its teeth at you, back off slowly, without turning your back on it, staring at it, or showing any fear. Rabies , though only a remote risk, does exist in Ecuador, with a couple of hundred cases a year: if you get bitten or scratched by a dog, cat or most other mammals you should wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and clean water and seek medical attention immediately. The disease can be cured, but only through a series of stomach injections administered before the onset of symptoms (which can appear within 24 hours, and include irrational behaviour, aggression, headache, fever and fear of water). There is a vaccine - a course of three injections that has to be started at least a month before departure - but it's expensive and doesn't prevent you from contracting rabies, though it does buy you time to get to hospital. Stings and bites from other creatures such as scorpions, spiders and snakes are very uncommon but can be terribly painful and, in rare cases, fatal. It's good practice to go through your clothes, socks and shoes before dressing, and to check your bedclothes and under lavatory seats. In the rainforests, watch where you put your feet and hands, and don't lean against trees. Walking around barefoot is not only an invitation to get bitten or stung, but opens the door to hookworm too. Ecuador does have its share of venomous snakes , but most of them are more concerned with getting away from you than attacking. Even if they do strike, there's every chance that they won't inject any venom. In the unlikely event of snakebite, reassure the victim and keep them still. If possible, kill the snake for identification purposes, and get medical help as quickly as possible. In remote rainforest communities, following local knowledge may sometimes be better than spending hours getting to a hospital. Village doctors (curanderos) may know effective antidotes, and be able to prepare them quickly.
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