jump to navigation | jump to content

Ask The Travel Doctor-TMVC

Q: Hi, I am planning a trip to Brazil in mid-July and will be in my second trimester (of pregnancy) and plan to stay in Brazil for between 4 - 6 weeks travelling up North (Rio, Bahia, Sao Paolo and then Londrina including the Igaucu falls. I am 38 years-old and this is will be my first child. I am concerned about the risks of pandemic influenza, malaria and dengue fever. I will also need a few vaccinations before I go and am worried about any potential affect these may have on my unborn child. My final concern is that I may be very uncomfortable if I stay as long as I plan to stay because of how big I may be! Can you help with some independent and sound information please?

Stella.

 

A:  You have raised several important issues for pregnant travelers. While the second trimester is often the best time for traveling ( got over sickness of first trimester, and before the weight of the third trimester makes travel uncomfortable), every pregnancy is different, and many women simply do not feel like traveling. Women with a high-risk pregnancy or complication of pregnancy should avoid travel.

Any planned travel should be where medical services are safe and available, and in general it is wise to consult your treating doctor/obstetrician for permission. Travel in malaria areas is unwise and should be avoided if possible- this is relevant to the Amazonian areas of Brazil. Vaccinations for Brazil are several, and this should include Yellow Fever, which is a live vaccine, and best avoided if possible in pregnancy. This means jungle/forest travel in Brazil should be avoided. It is rural and forest areas that have the highest risk for tropical diseases. Urban travel in Brazil is generally safe, but care with food and water and insects and animals is still important. Because this is complex, you need to consult directly with your closest Travel doctor-TMVC clinic.

Dr Tony

 

Disclaimer: Information provided in this health column is of a general nature & should not replace specific advice from your own personal Travel doctor-TMVC consultation.
Not all questions submitted to the website will be answered & Users of this website should always seek the advice of a qualified health professional with any questions they have regarding their health or a medical condition.