| SOUTH AFRICA - health facts |
| malaria - bilharzia - snakes - ticks - what to take - immunisations - insurance |
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South Africa is a relatively "soft" country when it comes to health risks as the medical facilities are world class, with many capable hospitals, clinics and private practices throughout the country. Unless something really serious happens, like if you get badly shot, gored, bitten or suffer a heart attack out in the bush, there is not much reason to be concerned. As with any travels to Africa, it is important to check your own medical insurance policies. That said, you'll find that you will need to pay upfront (cash or credit card) for all medical treatment and then claim from your insurer on your return. |
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| immunisations |
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There are no immunisations required to enter South Africa. However, if you have recently passed through one of Africa's yellow fever zones then an International Certificate of Immunisation is required for yellow fever (if you plan on hunting the countries to the north, this "Yellow Book" is essential). |
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| medicine chest |
| Pack these items for your trip: your own regular medication, malaria prophylactics (see below), tick repellent (DEET), mosquito repellent creams and sprays, sunblock and sunburn cream, diahhorea tablets, plaster for blisters and sore feet, general pain killers, antacid, anti-histamines, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic tablets (e.g. Phenergan). Eye-drops are useful in the dry season. |
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| malaria - a real killer |
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Your number one concern healthwise is, of course, Malaria. In comparison to other African countries, South Africa is relatively safe to visit and does not demand the use of prophylactics countrywide. However, you will definitely need to take preventatives if you are hunting in the following areas:
It is important to note though, that South Africa has recorded an unprecedented number of malaria cases this year. This is due to both the influx of infected immigrants from neighbouring countries as well as the heavy rainfalls this season. Remember, Malaria is a real threat and your safest defense against it is DON'T GET BITTEN. Cover up in the late afternoon around sunset and in the evening and spray your room before you sleep. MORE INFORMATION |
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| ticks & tickbite fever |
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Quite common to get this if you are hunting in Mpumalanga and Kwazulu-Natal. Make sure you check yourself ALL OVER (!) when you bath each night as they are tiny and very difficult to see. |
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| bilharzia |
| Bilharzia - is prevalent throughout Africa and the general rule is do not expose yourself to untreated water anywhere in the country. Bilharzia is however easily treated and does not pose an immediate threat to personal health. MORE INFORMATION |
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| snakes |
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Nobody likes snakes,
they have been symbols of evil and danger throughout history and in Africa
it is no different. Most snakes, if found are killed without even
considering if they are dangerous or not and the population density of
South Africa ensures you are very unlikely to stand on a live one.
South Africa has its fair share of snakes and many people are bitten each year mainly through their own ignorance. Of the 131 snake species which occur in southern Africa, 14 can cause death if they bite you and a further 18 carry venom which can lead to serious complications. MORE INFORMATION |
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