HEALTH AND SAFETY IN EAST AFRCIA
DISCLAIMER: THESE HEALTH TIPS ARE FOR PLANNING AND INFORMATION
ONLY. WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND YOU DISCUSS THE DETAILS OF YOUR ITINERARY WITH
YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE TRAVEL. IN SOME CASES, SUCH AS CLIMBING MOUNT KILIMANJARO,
YOUR TRAVEL COMPANY MAY REQUIRE A CERTIFICATE OF FITNESS SIGNED BY A PHYSICIAN.
Yellow Fever, Cholera, etc.
Though there is little risk of yellow fever in East Africa, it is recommended
that you are inoculated. The yellow book you will receive as proof of inoculation
will be helpful in your travel between African nations. Please note that
entry to Zanzibar requires evidence of inoculation. Your doctor may also
recommend protections against cholera, meningitis and hepatitis.
Tip - The yellow fever shot must have been administered at least ten days before arrival.
HIV, AIDS
The HIV virus is a serious concern in Africa. The virus, which may lead
to AIDS, is spread primarily through blood products and the exchange of
fluids during sexual contact. The risk to travelers is extremely remote.
Should you undergo medical treatment during your trip that requires an
injection, ask to watch as the seal is broken on the disposable needle.
You might consider bringing a disposable hypodermic needle with you as
a precaution. In a serious medical emergency, it is recommended that you
travel to Nairobi. Flying Doctor or similar organizations can arrange this
transfer. Most lodges, hotels and tour companies keep a supply of disposable
needles for their guests. Should you enter an intimate relationship with
a person whose HIV status is unknown to you during your trip, it is advised
that you practice safe sex and use condoms. Though condoms are available
in Africa, they may not be as reliable as those available in your country.
Malaria
One of the largest concerns about traveling in East Africa is the risk of
malaria. Malaria is a parasite that is carried by mosquitoes. In spite
of the extensive medical advances in the prevention and treatment of malaria,
it is still one of the leading causes of death across the world. This is
generally because it effects areas that do not have the access to proper
and timely medical care.
You should discuss the malaria risk with a doctor prior to travel. The doctor may suggest any of a number of preventative medications. These often require your taking them in advance of travel and continuing to take them for a period of time after you have completed your travel. We recommend you discuss the possible side effects of these medications. You might also discuss the possibility of not taking the preventative medications but treating symptoms if they occur.
Above all, you should keep in mind that the preventative medications are not 100% effective. If, during or after your travel, you feel feverish and/or experience soreness in your muscles, you should seek medical advice. If these occur after travel, be sure to advise the physician that you have traveled in Africa and that he should check for malaria (something the doctor might not do in other circumstances.)
You can help prevent malaria by taking some precautions:
- In the evenings, wear long sleeve shirts, long pants and socks.
- When camping, make sure your tent is zipped up in the evenings.
- Use a mosquito net if provided (not needed in Ngorongoro).
- Use an insect repellent with Deet.
Insects
Besides the mosquito, there are a few other insects that might cause you
concern. These include tsetse flies, caterpillars, bees, Nairobi Eye and
scorpions.
Tsetse flies found in East Africa do not carry a poison or the virus known to cause ‘sleeping sickness’ that their West African counterparts do. Here they cause an annoying an sometimes painful bite. Some people have allergic reactions to the bites that may last a few hours. Insect repellent with Deet and not exposing the skin to their bites are the best protection.
Caterpillars with long furry hair often have a painful sting if touched. They are not common, but should be avoided.
Bees are common throughout the world, and those indigenous to Africa do have the potential of inflicting a painful sting. If you are allergic to bee stings, you should advise your guide and a traveling companion. You should carry the medication you would take in the event of stings at home.
Nairobi Eye is a small type of fly that can be found in many parts of East Africa (not just in Nairobi). It can cause a painful rash and eye irritation can result from contact such as rubbing your eye after scratching the rash. Ask your tour guide to point one out and then avoid them.
There is the remote possibility, especially if camping, that you will encounter scorpions during your trip. As you might expect, they can inflict a painful sting. Their poison is not fatal except in extreme allergic cases. It is wise to check your clothes before putting them on and especially check your shoes.
And if that has not given you enough to worry about, there are also…
Snakes
Though it is a topic we who sell adventure travel like to avoid, we should
mention that there are some snakes in Africa. Many of the are quite dangerous.
But, the incidence of snake bite is negligible – not more than two
or three a year in all of East Africa. These often occur within local villages.
The important thing is, if you see a snake, remain calm. Do not try to
touch the snake. Most snakes are afraid of people and will go off in the
other direction when they sense your approach. The exception is the puff
adder, a short, fat, lazy, but deadly snake. If you have an interest in
snakes, your guide can stop at one of a couple of snake parks should you
be traveling near them in your itinerary.
Wild Animals
The purpose of your trip is most likely to see the wild animals of East
Africa. For this reason, we expect you know there might be lions, crocodiles,
and dozens of other dangerous animals in the places where you will be traveling.
For your safety and the safety of the animals, you should observe the following
etiquette:
- Whilst on game drives, remain in the car if any animals are present within 200 metres of the vehicle.
- Encourage your driver to keep a respectful distance from animals.
- If there is a hunt in progress, ensure your car does not get in the way of nature.
- Please do not make loud noises or throw things at the animals to get their attention.
- At lodges, ask for an escort when walking back to your room in the evenings.
- Remain in the perimeter of the lodge or camp on foot except under proper escort.
- Avoid throwing food remains from the car (such as apple
cores). Some animals are susceptible to the same illnesses that can be
passed between people.
Food
There have been travel guides written that suggest you avoid meats, fish,
shellfish, fruit, vegetables and salads. This is no longer the case. When
traveling with a reputable company, your trip includes only lodges and camping
services that have passed very strict hygienic inspection on a frequent
basis. Your guide may recommend places to avoid should you wish to venture
on your own in towns. Care should be taken in Zanzibar where you will have
a choice of places to dine at.
You can request special meals if you have dietary requirements. These should be mentioned in advance to ensure preparations can be made in remote areas.
If you have any food allergies, these should be made known so that your safari team can ensure your diet will avoid these foods.
Water
Bottled water is provided (either free or for sale) at all lodges and often
in your vehicle. Though the tap water from lodges is generally filtered,
boiled or both, the differences in minerals might cause discomfort and should
be avoided. It is important, however, that you drink a lot of water and
other fluids to avoid dehydration in the warmer climate.
Other Drinks
There is a large variety of locally bottled soft drinks and beer available.
These products are generally supervised under international standards (i.e.
Coca Cola) and should be quite safe. When in doubt, ask you guide. Wine
drinkers might enjoy some of the wines imported from South Africa. Chateau
Libertas is at the top of the recommendation list. Some spirits may be difficult
to find and are often expensive. You might consider traveling with your
own supply.
Important: When traveling on public transportation, do not accept drink offers from ‘friendly strangers’. There have been incidents where these beverages have been drugged that the traveler has woken several hours later, less all belongings.
A note to women
Feminine products are not always available in some of the remote locations
and they may be very expensive or of questionable quality. You should remember
to pack these items from home for your trip. Also, there are some roads
that may be very bumpy. Supportive clothing (as in a bra) is recommended
during these trips.
Jet Lag
There are a lot of ways people avoid jet lag, but the trip to Africa is
long and generally crosses several time zones (unless you are arriving from
Moscow). People traveling from North America might consider breaking their
travel in Europe. At the minimum, you might take advantage of shower facilities
offered at most international airports.
During the flight, avoid alcoholic beverages, but drink plenty of water and juice. Lip balm and skin moisturizer can help, as can the little foil wrapped moist towels.
Dress Code and Clothing Recommendations (also visit
'Packing Recommendations')
Dress while on your trip should be comfortable and casual. Cultural etiquette
suggests you wear conservative dress. When visiting Zanzibar Town, it is
suggested that men and women dress conservatively except at your hotel's
pool out of respect for the Moslem culture that is evident on the island.
There can be chilly mornings and evenings, especially in Ngorongoro, so
you should bring a light jacket or sweater. It is best to dress in layers
on cold mornings so you can reduce clothing without having to change items
while on a game drive. White or light colors are suggested and long sleeves,
pant legs and socks are recommended for nature walks as well as avoiding
flies, and mosquitoes. Bring sturdy, comfortable shoes and if hiking or
walking is on your agenda, make sure they are suitable for these activities.
Don't forget your swimsuit to take advantage of the pools on the way.
Sun Protection
Do not underestimate the power of the equatorial sun. It is very serious.
Bring a hat that will provide protection, sunglasses and sun screen.
