Medical Advice

Taking part in a pilgrimage is an exciting event. When you arrive you will probably be tired after the long journey, so it is important to get a good night’s sleep on your first night. Each day the pilgrimage events will be posted in your hotel. There is no obligation to attend all of these - do what you feel able to.

The weather in Lourdes is somewhat unpredictable but it can be very hot. In these conditions you can lose a lot of fluid, especially if you are working with the sick. It is important to drink plenty of water. Tap water is safe. The sun in Lourdes can be very strong. You should use sun cream and wear a hat. When abroad it is not uncommon to suffer from diarrhoea. The best treatment is to drink plenty of fluids and rest.

Lourdes is very crowded with lots of wheelchairs. Cuts and bruises are common, so make sure that you have some dressings and crepe bandages. You will spend hours on your feet so bring comfortable shoes and treat any blisters promptly.

Some pilgrims believe that in Lourdes they can stop taking regular medication. This is quite wrong and can be most dangerous. So make sure that you take your normal medication and keep it in your hand luggage when travelling. Please make sure that you bring at least 10 days worth of medications. If you are taking controlled drugs such as oramorph or morphine sulphate, please make sure that you bring your repeat prescription with you and have this handy at the airport.

The doctors on the pilgrimage are responsible for the assisted pilgrims (the sick) in the Accueil and registered assisted pilgrims in hotels. Nurses will visit the assisted pilgrims in hotels and call for medical help if required. In the first instance in an emergency please contact your hotel nurse who will be able to contact the doctor on call. A doctor will be available at the Accueil Notre Dame Accueil at 6pm each day, or after the service should one overlap with this time.

Pilgrims, other than registered sick, who consult one of our staff will be invited to make a contribution to the CA’s Sick Pilgrim’s Fund. In the event of a serious illness the French health service will provide care. To reclaim the cost of treatment you will need a current European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

Dr Adam Farmer
Chief Medical Officer
(2010)

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