Something on Malaria |
Malaria is found only in the Lowveld of Mpumalanga ,where Sabi Sand is situated and Limpopo and on the Maputaland coast of KwaZulu-Natal. Malaria is not much of a risk in the winter months. Although the incidence of malaria is rare, it would be best to take adequate precautions if you choose to visit these areas. We recommend that you follow the advise of your doctor or local travel clinic.
The South African government has embarked on an extensive anti-malaria programme (in co-operation with Swaziland and Mozambique) and the incidence of malaria is decreasing. One reassuring thing about malaria is that there is absolutely no way at all that you can contract it unless you are bitten by an infected female Anoplhles Mosquito. And with modern insect repellents and some common sense one can reduce the chances of being bitten to close to zero. The cheapest, safest and most effective measures against malaria are physical barriers such as a mosquito net, and the use of a good insect repellent.
Malaria Prophylaxis
If you decide to take malaria prophylaxis, it is essential that they take the drugs according to the directions on the package insert. You will need to start a week or two before entering a malaria-endemic area and should continue taking the drugs for four weeks after leaving the malaria risk area. It is advisable to consult a medical professional before embarking on a course of malaria prophylaxis. Note that expectant mothers should avoid malaria medications.
Common Malaria Medications include :
Malarone
( Atovaquone and Proguanil Hydrochloride ) is the newest and trendiest drug it responds extremely well to the parasites in the Kruger Park. The advantage of Malarone is that it only needs to be taken 2 days prior to travel to the endemic area and continued for travel 7 days afterwards.
Lariam
( Mefloquine ) has for many years received quite a bad ‘ knock’ as it needs to be carefully prescribed. Side effects include doubling up of any medications that you are currently taking, and therefore vital that you follow the advice of your doctor when you take this medication. This drug needs to be taken 1 to 2 weeks prior to travel and continued 4 weeks after leaving.
Doxycline
( available generically ) is an antibiotic whose properties are good as a malaria prophylaxis. Caution should be exercised as doxycline makes your skin particularly sun sensitive, of particular importance in Africa’s fierce sun.
Don’t get bitten !
The best prophylaxis is not to get bitten. Wear long trousers and long shirts during between dusk and dawn, sleep under a mosquito net, sleep with a fan on ( mosquitos do not fly in a breeze ) and wear mosquito repellant. Most importantly its vital that you do not let the fear of catching Malaria ruin your holiday, follow these simple guidelines and you are guaranteed a safe and enjoyable holiday.
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| OR Call: +27 21 701 5303 |
International Toll Free:
UK: 0800 680 0661
USA: 1800 701 2085
Canada: 1800 701 2085
Australia: +61 28 014 7511
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| More Info on Sabi Sand |
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| This section gives you vital information on how to get to the Sabi Sand, whether you are self driving, using Federal Air or flying into Nelspruit. There is information on what to pack, malaria information and the history of the park. |
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| There are no shortage of spectacular lodges to choose from in the Sabi Sand. With 4 and 5 star lodges to choose from this is South Africa’s premier safari destination. Plunge pools, private decks, salas, outsides showers all await you! |
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| The Sabi Sand is arguably the most popular destination within in South Africa, and for good reason. Browse our favourite tours and safaris and discover a world of leopards and lions ! |
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