Health Requirements:
There are medical facilities in main centres, but all visitors are advised to get medical insurance and to bring any medicines they may require with them. Most hospitals and clinics will demand cash payment for any treatment.
- Malaria: This is a big risk, especially as the strains found here are highly resistant to chloroquine. Due to the climate of Zambia, there are many insects that can carry disease or cause irritation. Malaria is spread by bites from infected mosquitoes, so make sure to use lots of insect repellent and to wear long-sleeved clothes and pants, especially after dark when the mozzies are most active. Sleep in a room with a bed net or mosquito proofing. Also speak to your doctor/pharmacist about appropriate prophylactics. Anti-malarials are not 100% effective so your best recourse is to ensure that you are always covered in insect repellent and avoid exposing the skin.
- Vaccinations: Speak to your doctor about appropriate vaccinations. You will probably have to get a Yellow Fever vaccination and your doctor may recommend a tetanus immunisation as well as Hepatitis A or B, Typhoid and Tetanus.
- Bilharzia: Bilharzia is present in Zambia, but if it is caught early, it is easily treated. Avoid swimming in parts of a river/dams where the water is not flowing freely. Visitors who are concerned about contracting bilharzia can have a routine monthly check once they get home, for about two months, to ensure they are fine.
- Tickbite fever: Which you can get from infected ticks, can be avoided by wearing long pants and socks when out in the bush and covering up with insect repellent.
- Sunburn: Even in winter, it is imperative that visitors make provision for the sun by bringing hats, sun lotions, lip balm and sun block. Especially those visitors who will be on or near water should be careful, i.e. those on a white water rafting trip.
Entry Requirements:
Most travellers need a visa to enter Zambia. Check with your nearest Zambian Consulate about the latest visa requirements.
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