Posted by Tina on Wednesday, 21. October 1998 at 04:24 Bali Time:
In Reply to: hamil! posted by john on Tuesday, 20. October 1998 at 17:21 Bali Time:
Yes, there is a chance of getting malaria on Lombok. YOU will have to weigh the pros and cons to see if it is worth it. Obviously, you have a lot at stake since your girlfriend is pregnant.
I'm going to Lombok for 1-2 days, and our health dept. said not to bother taking anything for such a short trip. You usually have to take the Rx before entering the malarial zone, during your stay, and for several weeks after leaving the area.
To be honest, if it was me, I wouldn't put my baby's health at risk. I don't know if you are just going on holidays or if there is a reason that you have to go to Bali. If it's purely for fun-in-the-sun, pick someplace TOTALLY safe. I know people will say, "Bali is safe, don't be so paranoid!!" But with pregancy comes nausea, health risks, and other ailments. Why compound the situation, right?
If you do decide to go. Ask your local pharmacist which insect sprays are safe to use during pregnancy, as some are NOT. It is absolutely necessary to use some type of repellant. Also stay away from the local lakes, as mozzies love that environment.
If you do decide to use a prescription, I think Chloroquin is the only "safe" one for pregnant women. There will still be some risks. Again, talk to your pharmacist and physician.
Ti
P.S. What does your girlfriend's Dr. think about your trip??