Freeman Safaris
‘Yesterday’s Safaris Today’
First of all it so important you go to see your doctor and seek advice, don't take any chances. It is better to be fully protected as requirements do change - as do treatments - particularly with malaria.The latest pills are so much better with no side effects. Prevention is the name of the game, so take advice.
I don't take any malaria pills, my staff and I spend too much time out and we would go yellow. Prevention is by far the best course and fortunately, as we do not operate in malaria areas, it is more for anti-bite precautions. If I am going to a known risk area then we all take medication, as I would expect you to do for the whole of your stay in Africa.
It is a worry to some people that they may suffer with some form of stomach complaint.Well, I can count on one hand the number of times it has happened. Good hygiene practice is very important in our camp routine, a point we all insist on. As I am well known in the areas we visit you will have to shake hands with many bush people. That is where any danger may lie as they are unable to practice our safe routines and that is when anti-bacterial wet wipes play an important part.
Personal Medication
If you are on any medication then please ensure you have enough to last a minimum of a month. Keep any spare separate, as we have had tablets stolen by vervet monkeys in the past!! It is important to ensure you have sufficient, as it is difficult and expensive to buy locally.
If you need any help or advice please ask as we are able to cope with most things. For example, we can run inverters changing 12 volt DC to 240 volt AC off the vehicles as well as the other way around. There are not many situations we have not come across before and extra staff can always be used to help the less able. This is the beauty of being totally self-contained; we operate at our pace, the itinerary can be modified to cater for your needs and I can assure you nothing is too much trouble.
Personal Medical Kit
Although a full medical kit is carried I still strongly recommend your make up your own medical kit.You know your ailments best and the medicines you prefer, but here are a few suggestions: Anti malarial, insect bite pencils, anti itch, painkillers, cold remedies, ear drops, eye application, mouth ulcers, indigestion tablets, skin applications, lip sores, anti diarrhoea, muscular cream, burns cream.
Spectacles
If you wear glasses then a spare pare is a must, particularly if you wear contact lenses. There will be days when you need to rest your eyes and glasses are easier - although I must say some find they don't need to, it is what you are used to. You certainly will need to take extra fluids for cleaning etc.
Lotions and Potions
Don't forget all your creams, sun block, after sun, as well as moisturiser and enough toiletries, shampoo, toothpaste, blades for the duration. Wet wipes are extremely useful and strongly recommended. Don’t forget the all-important insect repellent, the best contain Deet.
© Freemansafaris.com 2012
Medical Information
