Health, clinics, hospitals, doctors, dentists on Fuerteventura

The health services on Fuerteventura are excellent. If you or your family do fall ill, don't hesitate to contact the doctor. However, there are private clinics and the hospital. If you have to go to the hospital do not forget your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC which replaced the E-111) otherwise you will get billed for any treatment. Better still, take out annual multi-trip travel insurance.

In case of minor illnesses such as an upset stomache, you might choose to visit a farmacia (chemist) which are in almost every town. You can tell them by the green cross sign pictured above.

The chemists are different from UK chemists in that they are almost part-qualified doctors. For instance, they can dispense antibiotics without prescription from a doctor. Expect them to ask questions about your illness much like a doctor would.

If you are on specialist medication, take along an example of the medication you are looking for. Many have different names in Spain. Don't worry - all alternative medication names for different countries are listed in a book.

Chemists are usually open normal shopping hours - ie, closed during siesta times - with the exception of Saturday afternoons. The chemist at the airport keeps extended opening hours.

Private clinics on Fuerteventura

There are private clinics in most resorts on Fuerteventura. However, expect to pay for any treatment. Make sure you get a receipt to reclaim from your travel insurance. Most private clinics speak English.

Fuerteventura hospital

Fuerteventura hospital offers excellent emergency treatment although the system might appear slightly different from the UK.

For emergencies go through the door marked "Urgencias". You will normally be seen pretty quickly. There will eventually be forms to fill in - not least about your EHIC. Some of the staff - especially doctors - speak English at varying levels.

Dentists on Fuerteventura

Look for the "Dentista" signs. Most resorts have one. All dentists on Fuerteventura are private.

Opticians on Fuerteventura

Look for the "Opticas" sign. Most resorts have one and there is a large one in the Las Rotondas centre in Puerto del Rosario. However, don't expect the one hour variety as in the UK. They will often carry out minor repairs free of charge.

Upset tummy

Don't blame the local food or "something you ate". Often too much sun or too much alcohol is to blame!

Don't drink too much alcohol. Measures here are a lot larger and stronger than in the UK. Don't drink alcohol in the hot sun.

Avoid too many cold drinks

Stick to bottled water. Although the water on Fuerteventura is safe, it is desalinated and contains different minerals which the tummy might not agree with..

Always wash fresh fruit

Sunbathing and sunburn

It is always tempting to rush out into the sun when you arrive on Fuerteventura. But remember the sun in the Canary Islands is a lot stronger than in the UK. Take things easy for the first few days before stepping up your sunbathing sessions. The longer a tan takes to get, the longer it will last.

Use at least factor 15 on the first few days Put sunscreen on at least every couple of hours. Apply liberally at least half an hour before going out to let it soak into your skin.

If you are swimming or sweating, apply more often. Remember young children burn more easily.

Avoid the hot afternoon sun. You can burn even on a cloudy day

Wear hats and clothes and sunglasses as well as sunscreen. Make sure your sunglasses will cut out dangerous UV rays. Wear a wide rimmed hat - it will protect your face, shoulders and neck.

In case of sunburn use a prescribed after sun lotion. Cover blisters and don't burst them. If you have severe sun burn call the doctor immediately

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