Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Filariasis
Filariasis is caused by tiny worms migrating in the lymphatic system and is spread by the
bite from an infected mosquito. Symptoms include localised itching and swelling of the
legs and/or genitalia. Treatment is available. Self-treatment: none.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A, which occurs in both Botswana and Namibia, is spread through contaminated
food (particularly shellfish) and water. It causes jaundice and, although it is rarely fatal, it
can cause prolonged lethargy and delayed recovery. If you've had hepatitis A, you
shouldn't drink alcohol for up to six months afterwards, but once you've recovered, there
won't be any long-term problems. The first symptoms include dark urine and a yellow
colour to the whites of the eyes. Sometimes a fever and abdominal pain might be present.
Hepatitis A vaccine (Avaxim, VAQTA, Havrix) is given as an injection: a single dose will
give protection for up to a year, and a booster after a year gives 10-year protection. Hepat-
itis A and typhoid vaccines can also be given as a single dose vaccine, hepatyrix or vi-
atim. Self-treatment: none.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B, found in both countries, is spread through infected blood, contaminated
needles and sexual intercourse. It can also be spread from an infected mother to the baby
during childbirth. It affects the liver, causing jaundice and occasionally liver failure. Most
people recover completely, but some people might be chronic carriers of the virus, which
could lead eventually to cirrhosis or liver cancer. Those visiting high-risk areas for long
periods or those with increased social or occupational risk should be immunised. Many
countries now routinely give hepatitis B as part of the childhood vaccination program. It is
given singly or can be given at the same time as hepatitis A (hepatyrix). A course will
give protection for at least five years. It can be given over four weeks or six months. Self-
treatment: none.
HIV
HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, is an enormous problem in Botswana and Namibia, with
a devastating impact on local health systems and community structures. Botswana in par-
ticular has one of the highest rates of infection on the continent, with an HIV-positive in-
cidence of 24.8%, second only to nearby Swaziland. The rate is more than 13% in Nami-
bia. The virus is spread through infected blood and blood products, by sexual intercourse
with an infected partner, and from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth and
