Taking care of you while on Safari
Food and waterborne diseases are the number one cause of illness in travelers. Travelers' diarrhea can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites, which are found throughout the region and can contaminate food or water. Infections may cause diarrhea and vomiting (E. coli, Salmonella, cholera, and parasites), fever (typhoid fever and toxoplasmosis), or liver damage (hepatitis). Make sure your food and drinking water are safe. (See below.)
Malaria
It's a preventable infection that can be fatal if left untreated. Prevent infection by taking prescription antimalarial drugs and protecting yourself against mosquito bites (see below). Most travelers to malaria risk areas in this region should take mefloquine to prevent malaria. You can be infected with malaria in all areas of this region except the cities of Addis Ababa, Ismara, and Nairobi, the islands of Reunion and Seychelles, and in highland areas above 2,500 meters.
Yellow Fever
A certificate of yellow fever vaccine may be required for entry into certain of these countries.
Insects
Dengue, filariasis, leishmaniasis, onchocerciasis, trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness), and Rift Valley fever are carried by insects that occur in this region but are very rare. Protecting yourself against insect bites will help to prevent these diseases. These are not fatal however and rarely occur.
Motor Accidents
Because motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of injury among travelers, walk and drive defensively. Avoid night time travel if possible and always use seat belts.
Center for Disease Control
CDC Recommends the Following Vaccines (as Appropriate for Age):
See your doctor at least 4-6 weeks before your trip to allow time for shots to take effect.
To Stay Healthy, Do:
To Avoid Getting Sick:
1.Don't eat dairy products unless you know they have been pasteurized.
2.Don't share needles with anyone.
3.Handle animals with care (especially monkeys, dogs, and cats), to avoid bites and serious diseases (including rabies and plague).
What You Need To Bring with You:
1.Long-sleeved shirt and long pants
To wear while outside at dusk, to prevent mosquito bites (e.g., malaria).
2.Insect repellent containing DEET (diethylmethyltoluamide)
30%-35% strength for adults and 6%-10% for children. Unless you are staying in air-conditioned or well-screened housing, purchase a bed net impregnated with the insecticide permethrin. (Bed nets can be purchased in camping or military supply stores.)
3.Iodine tablets and water filters
Iodine tablets and water filters to purify water if bottled water is not available.
4.Sunblock, sunglasses, hat
To prevent one from suffering sun-burns and in some cases cramped skin.
6.Prescription medications
Make sure you have a copy of the prescription(s).