Travel Vaccinations for Tanzania

in Safari Planning & Tips by Araneta&Tan — July 10, 2009 at 1:46 pm | 0 comments

Here is a list of infection risks in Tanzania that can be preventable by vaccinations. Please note that these are only guidelines and it is imperative that you consult that your GP before making any travel plans to Tanzania or anywhere in the world for your own health safety.

Yellow Fever Vaccination

Required Vaccinations for Tanzania:

1. YELLOW FEVER – this is spread and transmitted through mosquite bites. There are higher risks when you are in rural areas and lower risks in the cities where outbreaks are not as common.

This is the most important vaccination you will need for your journey to Tanzania. You will not be allowed to enter the country without a proof that you have had your vaccination before your trip. The immigration officer at the airport will request that you show your Yellow Fever Certificate. This is given to you by your GP or travel nurse when you get your vaccination in UK or your home country. This certificate becomes valid 10 days after the vaccination and it lasts for up to 10 years.

Children are recommended to have their yellow fever vaccination from 9 months of age.

2. Diptheria - is transmitted through close respiratory contact with an infected person. The immunization lasts for 10 years.

3. Hepatitis A - is a faecal and oral infection that spreads through the contaminated food and water which causes severe liver disease. The immunization lasts for 20 years.

4. Tetanus - is a very serious infection that is contracted through dirty cuts, scratches and wounds. This is highly recommended when travelling to countries where limited medical care is available. The immunization lasts for 10 years.

5. Typhoid – is a bacterial infection that is transmitted though ingestion of contaminated food and water especially in areas where hygiene is poor.

Vaccinations to be considered:

1. Cholera – is common during rainy seasons and when during floods. This spreads out through contaminated food and water.

2. Hepatitis B – is a viral infection that is transmitted through blood, blood products and sexual intercourse. It is highly recommended for long-stay travellers, children. Vaccines are given in 3 doses in a period of six months.

3. Meningoccoccal Meningitis (ACWY)

4. Polio - a viral infection that causes paralysis. Vaccination lasts up to 10 years.

5. Rabies – is spread through direct contact with infected animals and can be fatal.

6. Tuberculosis – is transmitted through close contact with an infected person and sometimes through infected milk or milk products.

Malaria Prevention

Malarone tablets

Malaria is a very dangeroud disease that is common in Tanzania. It is widely spread by mosquito bites and is present all throughout the year. It is important to take extra precautions to avoid mosquito bites from dusk to dawn. Malaria tablets are also highly recommended for any one travelling to Tanzania. Please consult your GP and travel nurse with regards to the following Anti-Malaria drugs:-

1. Doxycyline – One tablet a day to start the day before departure and four weeks after leaving the malaria area. It is slightly cheaper than Malarone.

2. Malarone - One tablet a day to start the day before departure and one week after leaving the malaria area. Malarone is known to have minor side effects compared to other anti- malaria drugs.

For a more enjoyable holiday, we highly recommend that you take all the necessary precautions to protect you from any health risks when travelling to Tanzania.