VACCINATIONS AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS WHEN TRAVELLING TO AFRICA ON SAFARI
There’s nothing more exciting than planning a holiday. There’s new places to discover, a new wardrobe to buy and new cultures to be explored. And since travel expands the mind, one of the most enriching and memorable experiences you can book is a safari holiday – whether for yourself or the entire family.
However, with far-flung travel, especially safari holidays, there’s also some pre-travel planning involved to ensure a smooth, safe trip. A little organisation can go a long way when it comes to safety and peace of mind. Therefore, it’s worth considering your medical requirements in good time of your trip.
If you’re one of the many travellers about to embark on safari, you might wonder if you need vaccinations for South Africa, or other regions of the country. In this article, we look at all the essential safety and medical precautions to consider before travelling.
What Vaccinations do you Need to Travel to Africa?
Every year, millions of tourists visit Africa for a safari trip of a lifetime. The vast majority of visits are problem-free, however some precautions need to be considered for overall health, safety and wellbeing.
First of all, Africa is a huge continent made up of 57 different countries. Of these, some of the most popular destinations for safari holidays are; South Africa safari (Kruger is a favourite), Tanzania, Kenya, Zambia and Botswana.
Where you decide to go will determine the medical provisions you need to take. In the first instance, it’s advisable to speak to your GP at least 6-8 weeks in advance of flying, should travel vaccinations be required.
Since health requirements are subject to change, it’s important to check your destination in the first instance. The government recommend the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNac) for the very latest information available.
However, for detailed information on all travel vaccinations against infectious diseases, please consult the government green book, or speak to your local GP or nurse as a starting point.
Malaria Considerations
As well as travel vaccinations, you should also speak to your GP about antimalarial medication. Malaria is present throughout the year in parts of sub-saharan Africa, typically highest risk is between September to May.
One of the top destinations for South Africa safari – Kruger National Park, does have malaria present throughout the year – so please check with your pharmacy for more information on Malaria protection.
Safari Destinations and Vaccinations
For safari holidays to Africa, travellers should be up to date with routine vaccinations and boosters. This includes the MMR vaccine and diphtheria-tetanus-polio vaccine.
In the event of a diphtheria outbreak, you will require diphtheria travel vaccinations.
Additionally, it’s possible that you may require; Hepatitis A, Tetanus and Typhoid vaccinations/medication. Please consult with a medical healthcare provider for professional advice.
In terms of shots needed for African safari, here’s some additional considerations to key safari destinations:
South Africa and Botswana
While there is no risk of yellow fever in South Africa and Botswana, you may be required to produce a certificate of yellow fever vaccination, especially if you have travelled to high-risk countries.
Although it’s less likely that you will need these travel vaccinations, please speak to your healthcare provider about also being protected against; Cholera, Hepatitis B, Rabies and Tuberculosis.
Kenya and Zambia
Most travellers will need polio vaccinations.
It is less likely that you will need protection against; Cholera, Hepatitis B, Rabies, Tuberculosis and Yellow Fever, but please speak to a healthcare provider. For travel to Kenya this also includes protection against Meningococcal Disease.
Tanzania
Some travellers will also need travel vaccinations to protect against; Cholera, Hepatitis B, Meningococcal Disease, Rabies, Tuberculosis and Yellow Fever – please speak to your healthcare provider.
Where to get Travel Vaccinations?
If you require vaccinations for South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, Zambia or other African countries, you may be able to get some of these free.
The NHS provides free travel vaccinations against:
- Polio (usually a combined diphtheria/tetanus/polio jab)
- Typhoid
- Hepatitis A
- Cholera
- They can also provide antimalarial tablets
For paid-for travel vaccinations, you can visit a private travel vaccination clinic or pharmacy with travel healthcare services.
Other Safety Considerations
Shots needed for African safari is just one way to protect yourself. However, due diligence and some sensible precautions will help prevent many of the potential issues you face, as follows.
Sun Protection
In peak conditions, parts of Africa can heat up to 40º. For this reason, it’s vitally important to use high sun protection, usually 50+ for maximum coverage. This should be coupled with lightweight UV protective clothing, hats and sunglasses. Time in the direct sunlight should be minimised and your tour guide should be able to advise on safe shade spots.
Food and Water
It’s very easy to have an upset stomach or have diarrhoea, from food poisoning or bacteria spread though human and animal faecal contamination. The best way to avoid this is through exercising great care with hygiene. Bring a hand sanitizer with you and always wash hands thoroughly before eating.
To enjoy your safari holiday, it is advisable to use alcohol wipes to clean utensils before eating. If you choose to eat food from a street vendor, ensure that food is fresh and fully cooked and served immediately while hot. Use common sense, such as avoid eating leftovers and opting for pasteurised milk only.
It is essential to stay hydrated throughout your trip, however water should always be purified. To learn more visit, this NHS website.
Book with a Professional Tour Operator
For a safe and enjoyable safari, it’s important to book with a professional and experienced tour operator, like Wild Insight Safaris. This will provide you with the reassurance, expertise and guidance you need to get the most out of your safari holiday. As well as being part of the Travel Trust Association, the operator provides an on-the-ground tour guide who is native to South Africa.
Accident Prevention
When you’re travelling in unfamiliar territory, it’s important to exercise general care and caution. This means not going off-the-beaten track, staying with your group and tour guide (particularly at night time), and listening carefully to instructions.
Driving around South Africa requires some caution. Keep to the main roads and well-lit areas, minimising travel at night where possible. It’s important to take care and be vigilant at all times. The government website offers a detailed guide to road safety in South Africa here.
Insect and Animal Bites
Even if you’re taking antimalarial tablets and have all the necessary travel vaccinations, you will want to take care to avoid being bitten. Mosquito, flea and tick bites can be unpleasant and irritating, and may also pass on disease or infection.
It’s therefore advisable to wear long-sleeved tops, trousers and shoes in safari – or whatever your tour guide recommends. Tuck trousers into socks to minimise skin exposure. Use insect replant and always check for ticks at the end of the day.
The likelihood of being attacked by a wild animal on safari is low, however, the best way to avoid any issues is to listen to your tour guide. Even outside of the safari environment, it’s possible that animals such as dogs or monkeys can attack, so it’s worthwhile to be up on rabies and tetanus jabs.