Water/medical

[chippa]

Hi There, I am walking Kokoda in April 04 and have not experienced trekking in tropical climates before. Do you have to boil your drinking water before consumption or is it recommended to add iodine or other additives to consume water safely? Secondly, is it nessacary to get vaccinated against viruses which I might pick up in the water when I'm exposed to it ie: river crossings, swimming etc? Advise on these matters from those who have trekked Kokoda before would be deeply appreciated Thanks, Chippa.

[Alison Anis]

Hi Chippa

I was among the group who walked the Kokoda Trail recently on September 28th- November 6th, 2003 and I am pleased to inform you that the water along the track is clean and safe for consumption. While on track we did not have to worry about boiling water before consumption. Of course there were no complications after that. Also while in the villages you don't have to worry about where to get water. There are taps where safe drinking water is provided.

And yes it is possible to protect yourself against viruses you may get along the way. It is wiser to carry vaccines to protect yourself against viruses if your body is not used to river water. I didn't need to use any vacinnes at all. I assure you that river water is cool and you will enjoy your swim. But as I have said it is better to take precautions.

[muppie]

It would probably be better to consult with a doctor if you have any special conditions or allergy etc. Bring some first aid stuff / cream etc if you think you'll need them. Perhaps some sun screen and insect repellent and fatique cream (not sure what the name of this?)

Some people bring some "tablets" to purify their water while some just drink straight from the stream. The guides will tell you which stream to drink from as probably not every stream / river is clean.

Just make sure you bring a water bottle or "kidney" (it's a rubber water bag with hose / straw so you can keep the water bag in your bag and just suck on the straw).

The guides and porters will start up the fire and cook the meal for you and boil some water for tea or coffee for dinner.

[aussie]

Hi there Chippa, welcome to our kokoda forum.

This question comes up quite frequently however it seems to be an individual choice. Some people insist on their purifying tablets as they are afraid of getting the runs while out on the trail.

However, on the positive side, NO-ONE who has drank the water where the guides and porters have said it is OK, has got sick from it. Right from our very first trek until now, all who have drank directly from the streams have not had any problems whatsoever.

Once again though, seek the guides and porters advice before doing this as they know where you can and where you cant access clean water.

The Steve Ovett Trek, I can remember quite clearly them all saying the water was clean and they did not hesitate drinking it.

But once again, quite simply, if you do not want to risk it, then carry purifying tablets with you.

[chippa]

Thanks to all for the positive feedback. I'm hearing great reports about the survival skills of the guides and porters and I'm sure I will be pointed in the right direction when the time comes. Even though I rely solely on rainwater for my water supply where I live and am used to the odd bug here and there, I'm really glad to hear I will be able to drink from some of the streams and will probably not worry about purifying tablets <img src="http://developer2/board/upload/style_emoticons//smile.gif&#8221; style=”vertical-align:middle” emoid=”:)” border=”0″ alt=”smile.gif” /> Chippa.

[chriswilcox]

Hi
I did this trail several years ago with the army.
We used tablets which made the water tase a little unpleasant but stopped parasites etc.

We were travelling fairly light so not much medical stuff iodine cream some general purpose antibiotics a few bandages. The rest was maily tent and eating irons etc

Boots are very important get a good pair that support your ankles and that are well worn in and plenty of thick socks.

Be aware it is hard work and still that there are plenty of dangers Wildlife etc.

The most important thing is to have a positive attitude in the face of adversity

Good luck
Chris Wilcox
fromm cold cold bournemouth uk

[chippa]

Thanks for the tips Chris, I will definately take that advise on board. I am taking a fairly extensive first aid kit without trying to get too carried away. I'm also partaking in some basic first aid training which I believe is handy to know wherever you are, and am looking forward to the trek.
A causious, but trying not to be over causious Chippa! <img src="http://developer2/board/upload/style_emoticons//unsure.gif&#8221; style=”vertical-align:middle” emoid=”:unsure:” border=”0″ alt=”unsure.gif” />

[aussie]

Hi There, thanks for the email.

I have found the forum to be a great help and I'm ready to unsubscribe from the topic I printed – Water/medical. I have attempted to do this unsuccesfully and I don't quite understand if I have the ability to delete the topic or is that up to the admin. when a topic is removed?

Thanks Chippa

[aussie]

Chippa per above has asked that his request be removed but I have written to him asking if it can stay as this is a forum and its a question often asked by others who plan to walk the Kokoda Trail.

What do other visitors think?

[Author]

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