Tourist Information Chile - H |
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Health
Diseases
In Chile there is no need to fear any specific health hazards. No special shots are necessary; there is no malaria or cholera. It is, however, advisable to update one's standard protection against typhoid, poliomyelitis, hepatitis, and tetanus. Beware of tap water, raw vegetables and fish or other seafood, raw eggs, and food offered in the streets. Wash and/or peel all fruit and vegetables carefully.
Dangers of the Outdoors
Besides the hazards of certain high risk sports there are two dangers to your health that lurk in comparatively tiny format: catching the hantavirus, and insect bites. In Chile, there are two poisonous spiders, and north of Talca, there is the vinchuca bug that can transmit the Chagas disease. There are no dangerous animals of prey or snakes. You should also be aware of acute mountain sickness.
Medical Services
Medical treatment in private hospitals in Santiago and other major cities is comparable to top international levels. Before you leave for Chile, check with your existing health insurance on their coverage of international travel, or get additional insurance. All drugs are available, and most doctors speak English. Appropriate medical care can be more difficult to get in rural hospitals or at First Aid posts.
Holidays
New Year's Day (January 1st), Good Friday, Easter Saturday and Sunday (varies); Labor Day (May 1st), Naval Combat of Iquique (May 21st), Corpus Christi (May 23) , St Peter and St Paul (June 27), Assumption of Mary (August 15), Fiestas Patrias (National Holiday, September 18), Army Day (September 19), Discovery of America (October 12), All Saints (November 1st), Immaculate Conception (December 8), Christmas (December 25). A number of holidays are moved to a Monday to create a long weekend.
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