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A BAD STOMACH…. Do not use ice unless you are absolutely sure that it is made with purified water. Drinking water should be boiled at least 5 minutes. Always peel fresh fruit and vegetables and make sure restaurant food is fresh and steaming hot. Remember, in Ecuador anyone with a few hundred dollars and a few aluminum pots, can open up a restaurant. That does not mean that they are hygienic and have the knowledge to properly and safely handle food. There are no controls! Many little "gringo" restaurants will save food until it sells, despite the fact that it is spoiling! Look for restaurants that have people in them and word of mouth recommendations should lead you to some good places. Some symptoms of a "bad stomach bacteria" could be low fever, nausea, vomiting, stomach bloating, diarrhea or constipation. Many pharmacies are familiar with these symptoms and can give you something. Mebendazole, taken over a period of 2-5 days is a usual treatment for giardia. Bring anti-diarrheal medicine (Immodium) and painkillers with you from the States. Eating antacids is not a good idea as you need all the stomach acid you can get for maximum digestion. Sometimes, a day or so of untreated diarrhea can get the "bug" out of your system, but drink lots of fluids. Eating fresh garlic and putting lemon juice in your drinking water are good preventatives. There are excellent clinics and hospitals in Quito, Metropolitan Hospital being the best, with an emergency room outclinic. Prices will be very reasonable and you will be expected to pay immediately. When you get home, you can arrange reimbursement with your insurance company. And almost everywhere you go, there will be a highly recommended doctor or laboratory for common complaints. Ask at your hotel. |
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Welcome to the Ali Shungu MOUNTAINTOP LODGE, Otavalo, Ecuador |
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Ali Shungu MOUNTAINTOP LODGE E-MAIL MSN MESSENGER Ali Shungu PHONE: 01159362920750 |