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Via Afrika Publishers 2.1 A region known to have malaria Malaria is a potentially fatal disease transmitted by the bite of mosquitoes. Precautions that can take when travelling in malaria-infested areas include
• Taking
antimalarial prophylactics • Avoiding being outdoors at night
• Wearing clothing that conceals as much of the body as practical
• Spraying sleeping
areas with mosquito repellent • Sleeping under a mosquito net
• Burning insecticide coils or using electronic vaporizing mats
• Avoiding still water areas and dark damp places.
2.2 A region known to have bilharzia Bilharzia is also known as schistosomiasis and is caused by parasites
that contaminate freshwater, especially when infected people urinate or defecate in the water. Precautions are necessary when travelling in areas known to have bilharzia:
• Avoid swimming or wading in dams and rivers
• Drink only boiled or filtered water
• Bath in hot water that is at least 65 C, to destroy possible
parasites on the skin • Dry vigorously with a towel to prevent the parasite from penetrating the skin.
2.3 A region known to have cholera Cholera is a bacterial disease transmitted mainly through contamination of food and water in areas where there is poor sanitation and hygiene. Tourists in areas where cholera has occurred should observe the following precautions
• Drinking
water should be boiled, sterilised or filtered
• Foods must be well cooked and eaten hot
• Avoid undercooked
or raw fish and shellfish • Avoid local salads as they may carry cholera-infected water
• Avoid foods and beverages from street vendors
• Swim only in chlorinated swimming pools.
3. Vaccinations required for entering/leaving areas of high risk Proof of vaccination is often required for tourists travelling into or from countries with a high risk of an infectious disease. An example is a yellow fever vaccination.
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