Monday, June 17, 2013

What vaccines are required to be taken before travelling to Africa?

Before heading for a trip, immunization is must to be taken in order to have a safe trip. And when it comes to trip to Africa, it’s vital to get yellow fever vaccination. Along with it, various other vaccines are also required to be taken which would lessen the chances of traveler getting in contact with serious diseases.

Let’s have a look at the important aspects that must to be considered prior to the trip of Africa:

Routine vaccinations

These are shots that are must to be taken by each individual, even if not planning for a trip to abroad. Some of the routine vaccines are: diphtheria, chickenpox, measles, mumps, rubella pertussis, tetanus and influenza.

Recommended vaccines

Along with routine vaccines, recommend vaccines are also must to be taken. This comprise of polio, rabies, typhoid, meningitis and hepatitis A vaccinations. Out of all, hepatitis A and B is mostly recommended because Africa is high risky continent for this disease.

Yellow fever shot

Yellow fever is a deadly disease which is most commonly found in the regions of Africa and South America. It is caused by the bite of an infected mosquito when comes in contact with person. Person getting infected with it would have to face fever and flu symptoms, liver, kidney failure, jaundice, bleeding and death.

In order to prevent from this yellow fever shots are must to be taken prior to the trip. It helps in weakening the virus and safeguards the traveler form the disease. Usually, single shot is provided to the traveler, but people who stay in Africa and South America they are given booster vaccinations every 10 years.
Candidates who can get this vaccination

People living in and visiting to Africa

Infants of 9 months of age and people up to 59 years of age can get this vaccine.

Pregnant ladies are not recommended for this vaccine.

People suffering from life threatening condition.

From where to get immunized

In order to get yellow fever vaccine, traveler needs to visit a travel vaccination center at least four to six weeks prior to the trip, so that vaccines get effective in the body immediately before entering the country.

Together with vaccines, doctor would also prescribe certain medications that a traveler needs to carry along with him or her, in order to be safe from minor illnesses like fever, cough, pains etc.

After vaccination process is completed, doctor would provide travel certificate which traveler needs to carry during his trip because without it custom duty persons at airport won’t allow travelers to enter Africa.