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On the Trail

Water Purification

Gastrointestinal disease (including diarrhoea) is very common in wilderness travelers. The vast majority of these diseases are transmitted through contaminated food and water. Several different organisms are responsible for water-borne infection including bacteria (E.coli, Shigella, Campylobacter), Viruses (Hepatitis A, Norovirus), Protozoa (Giardia, Crypotosporidia) and occasionally Helminths (worms). Whilst in many cases a trail ultramarathoner will be well at home in bed before illness sets in; someone on a longer trek may have a much more difficult time!

Last Updated on Thursday, 24 September 2009 15:52

Fluids

Your body's fluid balance will be placed under considerable stress while hiking in the humid mountain jungle of Papua New Guinea.

Risks of dehydration include strenuous exercise, hot climate and illnesses such as diarrhoea. Some blood pressure medications called diuretics can also increase your risk of dehydration. Symptoms include increased thirst, dry mouth, decreaed urine output, weakness, fatigue and confusion. Severe dehydration can lead to seizures, coma and death.

Last Updated on Thursday, 24 September 2009 15:51

Injuries

The jungle trails of Papua New Guinea traverse slippery, steep, uneven slopes and sometimes treacherous river crossings. Almost any injury is possible. Those suffering serious injuries will require evacuation, usually by a combination of jungle stretcher and helicopter.

Last Updated on Tuesday, 23 February 2010 16:42

Patellofemoral syndrome

A common overuse injury on jungle treks is known as patellofemoral pain syndrome (runner's knee). This condition has a variety of causes, but on these treks is due to repetitive knee flexion with extra weight loading the joint. Pain is usually felt behind the kneecap, especially when going downhill.

Last Updated on Thursday, 24 September 2009 15:51

Foot Care

Foot care is vital while trekking in Papua New Guinea. Worn-in, supportive waterproof boots are a necessity. We recommend inner and outer hiking socks to minimise shearing, with at least a new set every second day. Ensure toenails are trimmed throughout the trek. Where possible, allow your feet to dry (eg. lunchbreaks, during the evening). When crossing creeks without your boots on, be sure to wear reef sandals or Croc-style shoes to avoid cuts and scratches from submerged rocks. Take similar care while bathing in the creeks and streams. Fungal infections can be prevented by the application of antifungal powder or cream in the evenings.

Last Updated on Tuesday, 23 February 2010 16:41

Chafing

Chafing is a potentially serious problem in the moist jungle environment of Papua New Guinea, leading to bleeding, skin infections and extreme discomfort. It can be prevented by the wearing of bike-pants-style elastic undergarments such as Skins. Careful, early attention should be given to any areas that appear to be chafing with liberal use of barrier ointments like Bepanthen. Infected chafing areas may require antibiotic therapy.

Diarrhoea

Diarrhoea during travel is thought to affect 10 million travelers each year. The most common cause is a bacteria called E. coli. Traveller’s diarrhoea is characterized by frequent loose bowel motions, abdominal cramps, nausea and vomiting. On trail, it can complicate an already grueling exercise with severe dehydration and fatigue.

The bacteria that cause traveller’s diarrhoea are sensitive to some antibiotics, including ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin and azithromycin. Prophylactic antibiotic treatment is not recommended for healthy adults.

Last Updated on Tuesday, 09 March 2010 15:42