I do Africa - Malaria, Africa's biggest killer
Above: Malaria – Africa’s biggest killer. Photo by: dr_relling
Probably from the moment we (seriously) considered this trip we mulled over the possible dangers we might encounter along the way. There are many things which might spoil the ‘odyssey’ and be potentially deadly, and although we realise that a road accident is most probable it is malaria that scares me the most.
As a child I was struck down with cerebral malaria while we lived in Kruger Park and I guarantee you I never want to cross paths with Africa’s biggest killer again.
From the word go we have been planning around malaria and as you can see from this map, there is just no getting around it.
We can’t run from it and we can’t afford to stay on anti-malarial drugs for the duration of our trip so we made alternate plans.
Obviously we will stick to the usual precautions (long sleeves, repellents, a net for the tent), but, as an extra safety measure we will carry malaria treatment and test kits with us. Our policy is to rather start treatment than wait for diagnosis.
In the end, it is a lucky packet and having done all this, we can only hope our packet is indeed filled with luck.
Lonely Planet’s Healthy Travel: Africa is great if you are planning a similar trip. It is small enough to carry around and not only educates but is also filled with bits of very useful information on malaria and other diseases, help with self diagnoses (if really necessary) and tips.
According to this book there are a number (rather interesting) diseases or bugs we might catch… most of which are apparently quite scarce and not such a bit worry. Instead of just naming them, I will dedicate my next blog to health, and share – or rather scare you with – some of the wonderfully gross bugs we might encounter.
Related Posts
Running the Two Oceans Marathon? Make Sure You Rent a Car in Cape Town
Travelling from afar or simply catching a flight from Johannesburg or Durban? You’ll need to rent a car in Cape Town if you plan to take part in the 2024 Two Oceans Marathon. The world’s most beautiful marathon consists of a 56 km Ultra Marathon and a 21 km half-marathon. Either way, you’ll need wheels […]
Read MoreFive White Water Rafting destinations in South Africa
It’s never a bad idea to explore the great outdoors; White water rafting is an exhilarating and fun way to experience this in its entirety. With so much biodiversity in South Africa, there is a world of wilderness bliss waiting to be experienced around every corner and there is also an uncanny spirit of adventure […]
Read MoreBotswana Border Posts Crossing Guide
Our Botswana border posts crossing guide is geared to help you get in and out of Botswana with ease. That means less fuss and more time to focus on your African adventure.
Read More