Hi Ru,
I have a more personal question,
i was reading the lonely planet guide to Egypt and found a warning to not touch to the waters of the Nile due to life threatening parasites.
Thats ok, but where does there town water come from for showering or is it advised we have an evian "skake down" each day?
Thanks
Question for Ru
Re: Question for Ru
Hello Concerned,
I know that you asked Ru to answer this, but I thought you might be reassured by a fellow traveller. Sorry Ru!!
The waters in which bilharzia is found are usually drainage channels/ irrigation ditches ie resonably shallow & the water is warm & still. I would think that most domestic water supplies would be treated with chlorine..... which kills just about anything. As I understand it the Nile is to cold & flows to much for bilharzia to be a worry BUT it is present in the above mentioned way. I wouldn't suggest anyone go paddling in shallow waters. As far as I know, if you believe you have come into contact with Bilharzia you can purchase medication to kill them. You tour leader may be able to help with more information.
Make certain when you buy bottled water that you check the seals are intact, if you are going on the Wagonlits train I wouldn't wash my face & hands or my teeth with the water on board. Take 3-4 bottles of water with you, so that you have plenty for this use.
Have a great time, wish I could join you! [img]http://www.imaginative-traveller.com/ubb/smile.gif[/img]
Don't be angry with me, Ru.
Re: Question for Ru
Hi Concerned/Debbie,
Hope you are both well.
How could I possibly be angry? I couldn't have answered that better myself. Honestly :-( .... :-)
I have had some experience of Bilharzia during my travels in Africa, and so just to agree with Debbie here, it doesn't lurk in fast/constantly moving water . You are more likely to find it in very slow moving/stagnant water especially where you can see reeds growing in abundance.
Egypt's water supply is not all that bad and you will have no problems showering or washing in the hotels/guesthouses etc... Not really a good idea to drink it however if you are there only short term as your body will not be used to the very high chlorine content. This is where the Evian bottles come in to place. No need to puncture holes in the lid and stand under it!
As Debbie also said, if you feel you need to be checked out on returning home for any parasites etc... this is very easy and a simple course of pills kills anything that shouldn't be there. I don't think you will need to worry about this in Egypt however!
Regards
Online Consultant [/b]
[b]Ru Lea
Re: Question for Ru
Thanks guys for your quick response! That sure settled by nerves.
Thanks again