Safety Issues:

Aspects of safety, security and emergency issues will be discussed during the organizational meeting held prior to departure. Some of these issues are summarized here.

• Ecuador has been enjoying political stability during 2004. Visit http://travel.state.gov/ecuador.html for updates.

• The Ecuadorian currency is the US dollar.

• The main security risk for the proposed trip is theft of personal items during our transit from the airport to the hotel. Participants will be briefed on precautions to minimize this risk.

• Travelers to Quito may require some time to adjust to the elevation (10,000 ft), which can adversely affect blood pressure, digestion, and energy level. However, the other locations we will visit will be at lower elevations.

• There are several active volcanoes in Ecuador, however, there are none close enough to pose a threat on this trip.

• It is inevitable that TD, or traveler's diarrhea will be a problem for some individuals on the trip. Participants are cautioned to bring appropriate medication and take proper precautions (e.g. drink bottled water, avoid street food, bring Immodium).

• Venomous animals (snakes, spiders, caterpillars, etc.) are occasionally seen. They do not pose a threat if avoided and a safe distance is maintained.

• Mosquitoes and other biting insects, although present, are not as abundant as you might think. The use of DEET-containing repellents help keep bites to a minimum.

• Various tropical diseases (e.g. yellow, dengue, and malarial fever) do occur in Ecuador, although no outbreaks have been reported at the stations. Precautions taken before departure, such as receiving vaccinations and taking anti-malarial drugs, will help to minimize risk. It will be mandatory for participants to consult with their health care provider with respect to vaccinations. Yellow fever vaccinations are mandatory.
  Visit http://www.cdc.gov/travel/tropsam.htm for more information.

• Medical clinics are available in towns near Jatun Sacha, and at oil exploration facilities near Tiputini.

• First aid supplies are available at the research stations. The instructors will have kits as well.

• Be sure to bring sufficient quantities of any medications you customarily take. Prescription medications must be kept in their original container.