Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
DIPHTHERIA
Diphtheria is spread through close respiratory contact. It usually causes a temperature and
a severe sore throat. Sometimes a membrane forms across the throat and a tracheotomy is
needed to prevent suffocation. Vaccination is recommended for those likely to be in close
contact with the local population in infected areas, but is more important for long stays than
for short-term trips. The vaccine is given as an injection, alone or with tetanus, and lasts 10
years. Self-treatment: none.
FILARIASIS
Filariasis is caused by tiny worms migrating in the lymphatic system and is spread by a 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 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 recov-
ery. 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 are 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. Hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines can also be given as a single-dose
vaccine, hepatyrix or viatim. Self-treatment: none.
HEPATITIS B
Hepatitis B is spread through sexual intercourse, infected blood and contaminated needles.
It can also be spread from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth. It affects the
liver, causing jaundice and sometimes 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 so-
cial or occupational risk, should be immunised. Many countries now routinely give hepat-
itis B as part of childhood vaccination. It is given singly or can be given at the same time
as hepatitis A.
A course will give protection for at least five years. It can be given over four weeks or
six months. Self-treatment: none.
HIV
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the virus that causes acquired immune deficiency
syndrome (AIDS), is a major problem in Tanzania, with infection rates averaging about
5.6%, and much higher in some areas. The virus is spread through infected blood and blood
