More Serious Health Problems

Hepatitis A and B.

It is recommended to get vaccinated against hepatitis A, since this strand of the disease can be caught from contaminated food or water. If you are planning to stay in Peru for more than six months or if you're going to work in a hospital, it may a good idea to get a vaccination against hepatitis B too. A hepatitis B vaccination is not considered necessary for short-term travelers. It is a good idea to stay away from any sort of questionable injection. It is also not a good idea to get a piercing while traveling, especially at the popular outdoor markets.

Malaria

If you are only visiting Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, Arequipa or Tacna, there is no known risk of malaria. In all other areas there is potentially a risk and you should take prevention pills. Mosquitoes carrying malaria are evening and nighttime biters. Thoroughly apply insect repellent with at least 30% DEET. Applying to your hair is good way to make the scent stay on your body longer. Sleep under a mosquito net. Wear light colored clothes and avoid using scented soaps or perfumes.

Rabies

There are stray dogs throughout Peru that are usually harmless. However, many home-owners train guard dogs to attack trespassers. On long hikes in rural areas, always carry a walking stick to defend yourself if a dog starts to attack. Public hospitals have free rabies vaccinations, if you have been unfortunate enough to have been bitten. The hospital's Departamento de Saneamiento is responsible for public health issues, including that dog that bit you.

Typhoid

An oral capsule or injection should be taken before travel, and the injection needs boosting every 3 years.

Yellow Fever

This mosquito-born disease is endemic to many parts of South America. Talk to your doctor before taking the vaccine, as it is not recommended for people with certain allergies (especially those with egg allergies), pregnant women and other special cases. The vaccine is good for ten years. You will be given a certificate after vaccination. Keep hold of it, as after traveling in Peru, you may need it to enter other countries.

As well as the above, make sure that you are up to date with your Polio and Tetanus jabs.