Malaria

Malaria prevention is a choice that you must make.

Southern Africa does have areas that are reported to have a risk  of Maleria. What is interesting about this fact,is that these fall into the most visited parts of Southern Africa ie the Kruger National park, and parts of Botswana.

However also keep a balanced perspective on Malaria.

The maleria mosquito pathogen is only carried by the female Anopheles mosquito.However not every female Anopheles mosquito carries the pathogen.The male interestingly enough is a vegetarian..fancy that,a veggie mosquito.

Then they only become active after major downpours of rain.and they only fly a few feet of the ground, in most cases.

So keep this mind, when thinking of whether you should take Malaria precautions or not.

In order for you to contract Malaria, technically, in most cases, you have to be in a area where there will be heavy rain, and then be in a area where the female mosquito that does have the pathogen, get 's active, and you have to be in the right place at the right time, to get bit.

In order for you to make a informed choice, my suggestion is that you review the Federal Govermant web site for the Center for Disease Control, the CDC.

From this site, and your own other readings, and trip layout, you choose if you need to take Malaria tablets.

Helpful hints while you on Safari:

1) Wear long sleeve shirts and pants at sunrise and sunset, including socks. Since this may be uncomfortable due to the hot sun, dress in layers for your drive/walking  Safaris.

Depending on when you travel, the night can be cool, so  this is not  so much of a problem. Layers of clothing for morning game drive, which takes you into the morning sun, is recommended.

2) Apply mosquito repellant, which is available in most Safari lodge bedrooms, and take your own.

3) Utilise the mosquito netting, and mosquito coils in your room, which is avaialble in most lodges or at the front dek, on request..

4) If you choose to take malaria tablets, take them until they are all complete.

Some other tips....wear a hat in the hot African Sun, take suntan lotion, and use it, avoid over eating in the hot sun, and drink lots of water.

Some more tips from the offical South Africa Tourism site(subject to change)

South Africa has excellent medical facilities. Medical treatment must be paid for, so travel insurance is a wise investment.

Tap water is safe to drink throughout South Africa (and swimming is safe along the entire coastline, except in areas that are clearly designated high risk for shark attacks)

 The bilharzia parasite may be present in rivers and lakes in the eastern and northern regions; warning signs are usually posted.

 No vaccinations are required of visitors from the United States or Canada.

Before visiting game reserves and parks in the northern parts of Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal provinces, take malaria prophylactics, available without prescription at South African drugstores.

If you are still unsure, consult your doctor before leaving...however ensure that he knows what he is talking about.....