African Safari FAQ

Malaria

Remember that the rainy season plays a major role in the prevalence of Malaria - the more water is caught in puddles in the open, the more mosquitoes are around and thus your chances of being bitten and contracting this disease increases. Although it can be deadly, proper precaution should make it safe to travel in the infected areas and medical treatment for the disease is easy and successful, if it is treated in time! South Africa is increasing it's number of malaria-free Big 5 game parks in the south of the country specifically so as to offer those who can not, or don't want to, take any risk of exposure an alternative. Most medical professionals would not advise travel in an infected area during a pregnancy. Get advice from your local medical professional. Make sure you have all of the information you need about malaria and the possible prophylaxes you can use. An insect repellent - try to get one manufactured in the region you'll be traveling in - is still your first and best line of defense! Some regular visitors to known malaria areas dress with long sleeves, spray repellent all over and just avoid being outdoors between sun set and sunrise. Please check with one of the travel clinics for an up-to-date list of precautionary treatments.