Before travelling to Africa, it is essential to consider vaccinations. Certain vaccinations (or immunisations) are needed by law for entry into certain countries. Others are just necessary for prevention.
Before going on safari, the most important thing to do is consult with your GP or travel doctor.
We are often asked, “what vaccinations do I need for my safari?” Whilst we are Africa travel specialists and have vast on-the-ground experience in Africa, we are not medical professionals. Thus, you need to speak to your travel doctor about what is best for you. What they recommend may depend on several factors, including your previous travel history and personal medical history.
Your GP or travel doctor will be able to provide you with up-to-date medical information on the countries you want to visit, as well as advice tailored to you and your medical history. This must be completed before your travel to Africa. Consultation with a doctor should be part of your trip preparations.
VACCINATIONS
Routine vaccines that you should discuss with your doctor include: Flu, MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella), Polio, Hepatitis A and B, Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), and DPT are all vaccines (diphtheria, pertussis or whooping cough, and tetanus).
COVID-19
COVID-19, unfortunately, is not going away. However, border crossing limitations are always changing. Before visiting Africa, you should be informed of the current entrance rules and take precautions to safeguard your health and the health of others.
Some African countries require visitors to be completely immunized against COVID-19, whereas others need negative PCR testing.
Yellow Fever
Yellow fever is carried by a mosquito type found in portions of Africa and South America. It is easily avoidable with a very effective vaccination, which is now valid for life.
Several African countries ask for the yellow fever vaccine on entry. And, some will ask for it if you have visited a country within the “yellow fever belt” .
Rabies
No one expects to be bitten by a dog, monkey or bat while travelling, but the reality is it can happen. That said, in 30 years of travel to and from Africa, we have not seen a rabid animal (domestic or wild) in Africa. And, we have a 100% success record with no guests being licked or bitten by a domestic or wild animal.
Malaria
Malaria is preventable and treated with antimalarial medicine, despite being one of the most frequent illnesses in Africa.
In addition to medications, you can reduce your risk of being bitten by applying insect repellent to any exposed skin, wearing long-sleeved at night, using a mosquito net, and keeping your room or tent fully closed at night.
Xavier safari is an African travel company, not a medical consultants or a firm of doctors.
Xavier Safari will assist you with many aspects of your African travel, but we are not medical professionals, we recommend that you visit a medical professional before traveling to Africa.
