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-   -   immun sched. for SA,Bots,Zim? (https://www.fodors.com/community/africa-and-the-middle-east/immun-sched-for-sa-bots-zim-673835/)

julienk Jan 25th, 2007 07:30 PM

immun sched. for SA,Bots,Zim?
 
The advice for these seems to change over time and area. We are leaving in 9 months...when do we start with the immunizations? Which do we need if we are spending time in SA (CT, KwaZulu, JB), Bots (Chobe), Zim, Zam, Namibia (all in close proximity to Vic. Falls. Not venturing too far into the countryside.
I know we need to get Malarone prior to the trip and continue taking during and after. But what others are needed and the timeframe to begin...please and thank you.

sandi Jan 26th, 2007 03:58 AM

You should be able to find information regarding suggested/recommended inoculations on the www.cdc.gov/travel site. Select the countries of travel and you'll find what you need.

Generally, it is suggested travelers should be current with Tetanus, Hep A and a Polio booster. The Tetanus inoculation will last 10-years. Hep A, which is two shots, the 2nd given 6/mo to 1/yr after the first, likewise, will last 10/years. And, the Polio booster should last the rest of your life.

Gather the information, make an appointment with your physican to discuss. Or visit a Tropical Diseases specialist. Prices can be costly, especially if your insurance doesn't cover, but all three of the above will serve you well even if you never leave home. Some health plans cover these, others don't.

It's a good idea to schedule these at minimum 6/weeks prior departure, especially if you need two visits to be punched like a pin cushion... we all react differently.

Again, be informed and discuss with the professional, based on your personal health history.

Happy travels.

julienk Jan 26th, 2007 06:25 PM

Guess if I start soon, I will be able to fit in the 2nd shot/booster. Then would just need to get a malaria prescription before I leave.
Thanks for the info

safarichuck Jan 27th, 2007 02:03 PM

The first dose of the Hep A vaccine (Havrix) will give you immunity in about 30 days. That immunity is good for a few years. By taking the second dose (6-12 months later) you will gain immunity for between 10 and 20 years. So you don't have to rush right out and have both before your trip. Just allow a good month after your first immunization.
Hope this helps.......

julienk Jan 27th, 2007 03:11 PM

Now it makes sense....couldn't understand why you would start only 6 weeks before.
I still think I will get them extra early during my annual physical. Then all I will need to get are malaria pills.
Thanks for all your help

sandi Jan 28th, 2007 04:45 AM

If you have an annual exam scheduled and get your inocs at that time, you may be lucky enough not to be charged.

matnikstym Jan 28th, 2007 09:10 AM

julie, you might want to get some strong antibiotics also. (ciproflaxin) just in case of bacterial infection.


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