Travelling to far-flung holiday spots, like Africa, can unfortunately bring some kind of illness along with it. Catching a cold, developing fever, having an upset stomach or being injured isn’t good anytime. It can become even more unpleasant and dangerous when you are far away from home, especially while exploring Africa.
The human body has adapted enough to deal with different germs and bugs. However, while travelling, you are exposed to a variety of bugs that the human immune system has not yet been exposed to. In these circumstances, your immune system might experience an overdrive. So, instead of enjoying the holiday in a bio-hazard suit, what steps can you take to avoid getting ill or injured while travelling? This article explores a few measures you can take to ensure that your holiday is as stress-free and enjoyable as possible.
Follow the ‘Bottled Water’ Rule
The very first preventative measure you can take is to avoid consuming tap water. This may seem obvious or potentially paranoid, but adhering to this rule can help you avoid all manner of stomach upsets. Though there is nothing inherently wrong with African tap water, a foreign immune system may not be equipped to deal with commonplace bacteria. To avoid an unpleasant first week, stick to bottled water and try to remain hydrated.
Vaccinations and Medication
When it comes to immunisation, never underestimate the recommendations of a qualified medical practitioner. Prior to departure, it is imperative that you contact your GP and receive the necessary vaccinations required for your destination. It is also sensible to carry some common medication, prescriptive or otherwise, with you at all times.
Basic Hygiene
While travelling, you often come into contact with numerous people and experience exposure to many public areas. Naturally, this exposes you to numerous bacteria. This can lead to compromised personal hygiene. Following some basic hygiene tips, such as washing hands with soap and hot water, or carrying hand sanitising wipes or gel will minimise this risk.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Needless to say, you shouldn’t hesitate to seek immediate medical attention in case of injuries, animal scratches or bites and the like. Nor should you panic. During the past couple of years, there have been numerous advancements in the African healthcare system ensuring that there is no dearth of quality medical healthcare available. Organisations like Deux Projects Ltd. have played a key role in funding this development.
Kayode Olatunji Olowolafe, CEO of Deux Projects International, has spearheaded this movement and was behind a remarkable success story in Lagos, Nigeria. The Lagos State University Teaching Hospital underwent renovation and reconstruction to the highest medical standards, all under the lead of Dr. Olowolafe. Within Nigeria, this visionary has also provided a breast cancer detection centre in coalition with the Lagos state government. Speaking to a reporter about Deux Projects, Dr. Olowolafe said that his vision was to design a holistic and complete healthcare system for the people.
So, if you are planning a holiday to Africa, follow some of these tips for a safe and happy holiday and don’t panic if the worst happens.
Written by: Joseph’s interest in healthcare and infrastructure development began in college and developed through a period of volunteering in both Africa and South America. Now a professional writer, Joseph closely follows the work of Kayode Olatunji Olowolafe CEO of Deux Projects focusing on the long term gains in economic development that comes with improved healthcare standards and the infrastructure developments needed.
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