Quote:
Originally Posted by typhoonpilot  Sky Cougar:
Sounds like a fun trip. Have you taken anti-Malaria medication before? I have and it's not fun. Some people tolerate it okay, but it makes others dizzy and uncomfortable. I personally won't take it ever again. The better option is to cover up at night and use a good anti-mosquito spray with at least 30% DEET. South Africa is not a high risk Malaria area in general. For your itinerary the risk of malaria infection is infintesimal while the risk of ruining your trip due to feeling unwell while on the meds is fairly high. It's a risk versus reward scenario for sure, but I wouldn't take the meds. Light colored clothing, DEET, and reduced outside activity at night along with a good Gin and Tonic at happy hour and you'll be fine  .
TP |
TP, I had a bunch of vaccinations today and picked up the malaria (Malarone) meds, but I am a bit apprehensive about taking the malaria meds. My ex-husband came over for lunch the other day and he kind of raised his eyebrow as well when I told him that the travel medicine nurse told me that I should take the malaria meds. He's a physician and he told me to drink gin and tonic as well
since I'm not going to be in an extreme high risk area. I may skip the meds, but it would be a serious drag to get malaria. I'll be careful though - thanks for the advice!
Along with the Typhoid fever, influenza and hepatitis vaccines I got today, I was surprised that they also gave me a polio vaccine. I had it when I was a kid, so I thought I was covered. - Apparently there have been recent polio outbreaks in Namibia and Nigeria. My arms are sore tonight after all of the vaccines!