The sun

For those whose skin is sensitive to sun exposure, we do not recommend using monoi or one of its derivatives that won't protect enough against UV. Actually, UV are responsible for damaging epidemics cells which release substances dilating the blood vessels : it is sunburn.

The middle-term effects consist in tiredness, cramps and an unquenchable thirst. You must know that one hour of sun exposure is equivalent to 8 km of walking ! The long term effects are early and accelerated ageing skin and cancer as well. We advise you to avoid the sun at its peak moments -between 11am to 3pm, and to limit yourself to only two hours of exposure a day, and finally to drink abundantly.


Dengue fever and mosquitoes

Mosquitoes may disturb tourist life but there are some precautions to take. There are many products on the market with which you can rub or spray on yourself. Dengue fever comes from female mosquitoes that are infected with a virus which will be transmitted to humans while biting. The first symptoms appear brutally : high fever, headaches and muscular pains associated with a strong feeling of tiredness that will last for 4 to 7 days. Best is to rest in bed and to take some pills of Doliprane. There are 5 or 6 different forms of dengue fever and the most dangerous one will lead to internal hemorrhage if not treated properly. This is why aspirin must be absolutely avoided.

Shark

Probability of being attacked by a shark is minimum but it is strongly advised to keep at the distance with this wild animals.

Ciguatera

It appears in zones where coral has been destroyed and where toxic algae proliferate. These are eaten by fishes -sea-perch, emperors, parrot-fish, jack crevallis, surgeon fish- whose flesh becomes toxic. Then the disease is transmitted to human. It is strongly advised to eat head, viscera and roe. The symptoms of Ciguatera are a tingling sensation in the face and hands, vomiting and diarrhoea. The treatment is symptomatic and in case of serious dehydration, hospitalization can be necessary. Shark Probability of being attacked by a shark is minimum but it is strongly advised to keep at the distance with this wild animals.

Coral

Coral is in reality a calcareous concretion made by animals called polyps to protect themselves from predators. Scratches are thus frequent and red blotches may appear on the wound. A good tip is to put lemon juice on any scratches as soon as you get out of water. Actually, even a minor wound can infect rapidly under the tropics. In the event of a very strong infection, see a doctor who will prescribe an antibiotic. We advise you to wear plastic sandals when bathing among the corals or walking on coral reef.

Bite

Cones, sea urchins, starfish, stone fish can bite. The best protection is to wear plastic sandals when bathing among the corals or walking on coral reef, and the best advice is not to try to touch them voluntarily. On the spot, clean the wound with a disinfectant and go and see immediately a doctor.