Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
BEFORE YOU GO
A little planning before departure, particularly for vaccinations or if you have a pre-existing
illness, will save you a lot of trouble later. Before a long trip get a checkup from your dent-
ist, and from your doctor if you have any regular medication or chronic illness, eg high
blood pressure or asthma. You should also organise spare contact lenses and glasses (and
take your optical prescription with you); get a first-aid and medical kit together; and ar-
range necessary vaccinations.
It's tempting to leave it all to the last minute - don't! Many vaccines take several doses
over a period of up to six weeks, so you must visit a doctor six to eight weeks before depar-
ture. Ask your doctor for an International Certificate of Vaccination (otherwise known as
the yellow booklet), which will list all the vaccinations you've received. This is necessary,
as proof of yellow-fever (and possibly cholera) vaccination is mandatory in Ethiopia.
Travellers can register with the
International Association for Medical Advice to Trav-
ellers
(IMAT;
www.iamat.org
)
. Its website can help travellers to find a doctor who has re-
cognised training. Those heading off to very remote areas might like to do a first-aid course
(contact the Red Cross or St John's Ambulance) or attend a remote-medicine first-aid
course, such as that offered by the
Royal Geographical Society
If you're bringing medications with you, carry them in their original containers, clearly
labelled. A signed and dated letter from your physician describing all medical conditions
and medications, including generic names, is also a good idea. If you're carrying syringes
or needles be sure to have a physician's letter documenting their medical necessity.
Insurance
Medical insurance is crucial, but policies differ. Check that the policy includes all the activ-
ities you want to do. Some specifically exclude 'dangerous activities' such as white-water
rafting, rock climbing and motorcycling. Sometimes even trekking is excluded. Also find
out whether your insurance will make payments directly to providers or will reimburse you
later for overseas health expenditures (in Ethiopia, Djibouti and Somaliland many doctors
expect payment in cash).
Ensure that your travel insurance will cover the emergency transport required to get you
to a hospital in a major city, to better medical facilities elsewhere in Africa, or all the way
home, by air and with a medical attendant if necessary. If you need medical help, your in-
