Vaccines in Africa – A guide to safe travel

Ker & Downey Africa > Journal > Vaccines in Africa

The word ‘vaccine’ is on everybody’s lips at the moment. Truth is, vaccines in Africa have been around a long time. When booking a safari or island adventure to the remote regions of this magical continent, one often experiences a surge of excitement coupled with a hint of trepidation. “Will I get sick?” The answer to that question is most likely not, but there are some necessary precautions to consider to ensure optimal health during your trip. 

When traveling anywhere in the world, it is advisable to seek out sound medical advice prior to your trip. Before your adventure to Africa, be sure to consult your doctor, travel clinic and LuxVenture® designer. They will be able to tell you exactly what to look out for in the regions you’re visiting and offer up all the valuable information you need to know prior to your trip. 

In the meantime, we have put together some useful information about vaccines in Africa and some of the most common health precautions to consider:

There are many parts of Africa that are considered high-risk Malaria areas. This disease is spread by being bitten by an infected female Anopheles mosquito and the risk is highest when mosquitoes are prolific – particularly during hot and humid months. 

We advise you to first consult with your LuxVenture® Designer to check if you are visiting an affected area. If so, contact your physician about Malaria prophylactics before traveling. 

There is no vaccination for Malaria, but antimalarial medication has been tested and proven to work.

PLEASE NOTE: Scuba diving after your trip might affect the type of antimalarial you may be prescribed.

If you want to avoid traveling in a malaria area entirely, there are plenty of great malaria-free safaris to choose from.

General health tips while traveling in Africa

• Sleep under the mosquito net provided in your room.
• Make use of the insect repellent provided in your room by lightly spraying your body and room before leaving for a meal or safari drive.
• Wear light-weight long trousers and closed shoes during safaris to prevent insect bites on your legs.
• Avoid wearing dark colours, such as blue and black, in Tanzania. These colours attract the Tsetse fly, which can be a threat to your health if you get a sting.
• Always apply high SPF sunscreen regularly and wear a sun hat.
• Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and seek medical assistance if you feel shaky, nauseous or clammy after a day in the sun, as you may be suffering from sunstroke.
• If you start to feel ill at any point of your safari adventure, let your LuxVenture Designer, lodge manager or guide know as soon as possible.

In conclusion, it is important to always double-check the health and safety requirements for the destinations you’re visiting. You can do this with your LuxVenture® Designer, doctor and travel clinic before your trip. Not only will this give you peace of mind during your travels, it will also ensure that your thrilling adventure is one for the books! See you out there.