SKIN INFECTIONS

Skin infections from a wound or even a graze may need treatment with antibiotics. Watch out for a wound oozing a lot of pus, surrounded by a red area, which gets bigger. Flucloxacillin and Co-amoxiclav are the most useful antibiotics for this type of infection.

BITES

Animal bites are always a cause for concern, even if you had a rabies vaccine given before departing a further course must be administered as soon as possible after the bite. Scrub the wound with soap and water and remove any foreign matter and then irrigate with either iodine tincture, betadine solution or alcohol.

FUNGAL INFECTIONS

Some types of fungal infection are more likely to flare up in the tropics. They usually occur between the toes (athlete's foot) or in the groin (dhobi itch). They may be very irritating, but are easily treated with Clotrimazole or Miconazole creams and powders. If the symptoms appear to go after a few days continue treating the affected area for a least a week. Candidial vaginal infection (thrush) often flares up in the tropics and women who experience such problems should carry an appropriate treatment.

WORM INFESTATIONS

There are various types of worm infestations, and often symptoms will not appear until some time after returning home. Mebendazole is a useful drug for treating many, but not all.

INSECT BITES

Insect bites and stings can be very irritating. Eurax is good for relieving the itch, but Hydrocortisone is better for reducing both itching and swelling. Hydrocortisone should not be used if the bites are infected. Always clean and use an antiseptic on any bites. Antihistamine tablets can also bring relief but may make you drowsy.

SNAKE BITES

Snakebites can be fatal; if you are unsure what type the snake is hospital treatment should be sought as soon as possible, even if the snake is not fatal. The affected limb should be immobilised with a splint, and Paracetamol (not aspirin) used as a painkiller. ONLY if the snake venom were known to be of the dangerous 'neurotoxic' type, would a tight tourniquet be called for. The best method of achieving this is to wind a crepe bandage very tightly around the splinted limb.

This information is to complement and not replace the relationship with your family doctor. Always discuss your travel health requirements with your regular doctor or practice nurse.