Health Journal and Advisory

Food and waterborne illnesses are the most common health issues affecting travelers. Contaminated food or water can carry viruses, bacteria, or parasites that cause diarrhea, vomiting (E. coli, Salmonella, cholera), fever (typhoid, toxoplasmosis), or liver infections (hepatitis). Always ensure your food and drinking water are safe—see tips below.

Malaria is preventable but can be dangerous if untreated. Protect yourself by taking prescribed antimalarial medication and avoiding mosquito bites. Most travelers in high-risk areas of the region are advised to take mefloquine.
Malaria risk is present in most areas except major cities like Addis Ababa, Asmara, and Nairobi, the Seychelles, Reunion, and high-altitude regions above 2,500m.

Some countries in the region require proof of Yellow Fever vaccination for entry. Check requirements before travel.

Diseases such as dengue, filariasis, leishmaniasis, onchocerciasis, sleeping sickness, and Rift Valley fever are carried by insects but occur rarely. Reducing insect bites greatly lowers any risk. Most of these illnesses are not fatal.

Road accidents are a leading cause of injuries among travelers. Practice defensive driving, avoid traveling at night, and always wear seat belts.

See your doctor 4–6 weeks before travel to allow time for vaccinations and medications.

Recommended vaccines may include:

• Hepatitis A or immune globulin (IG)

• Hepatitis B (essential for healthcare workers, those with possible exposure to blood, or sexual contact risks)

• Tetanus-diphtheria, measles, and adult polio boosters when needed

• Hepatitis B is recommended for all infants and children aged 11–12 if they did not receive it earlier

• Wash hands often with soap and water.

• Drink only bottled or boiled water, or sealed carbonated drinks.

• If needed, purify water by using an absolute 1-micron filter AND iodine tablets.

• Eat only well-cooked meals or fruits and vegetables you peel yourself.
  Rule of thumb: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it.

• Take antimalarial medicine exactly as prescribed—before, during, and after your trip.

• Use insect repellent regularly.

• Sleep under permethrin-treated mosquito nets.

• Stay in screened or air-conditioned rooms when possible.

• Always use latex condoms during sexual activity.

• Do not consume unpasteurized dairy products.

• Never share needles.

• Handle animals carefully (especially dogs, cats, monkeys) to avoid bites and diseases such as rabies or plague.

• Long-sleeved shirts and long pants for evenings (mosquito protection).

• Insect repellent with DEET (30–35% for adults, 6–10% for children).

• Permethrin-treated bed net if your accommodation is not well screened.

• Iodine tablets & water filter for water purification.

• Sunblock, sunglasses, and a hat to prevent sunburn.

• Prescription medications plus copies of all prescriptions.