Vaccines for SA?

[Elksong]

Looking at the CDC website they recommend a Hep A and Typhoid vac. For those that are in the know how vital is it to get theses vacs?

[acolobowhunter]

Don't know where you are going, but I was told that we didn't need anything for Namabia.  Even the people there don't take and shots.

[JohnV]

The CDC are the medical experts.  I would rely on their advice.  I took a variety of shots for my hunt to Namibia six years ago based on advice from my physician.  The shots were not mandatory and I could have declined but I figured my health was not worth risking.

[NailCreek]

We hunted in Limpopo last year.  No vaccinations were required.  Be mindful of the their ticks.  Several members of our group got tick fever.  Enjoy your hunt.  It is a magical place!   

[Jerry Russell]

I have hunted most of Southern Africa and never saw any need for vaccinations. In some cases (such as malaria meds) the negative side effects far outweigh any potential benefits.  Contact your PH and they will put your mind at ease. 

[JohnV]

You have to take into consideration any travel you may do before or after your hunt as it may involve travel into areas at higher risk.  Yes, most people will travel into a malaria area and never contract it.  But it can be very dangerous to those few who do come down with it.  The daughter of my outfitter in Namibia contracted malaria early this year and was in intensive care for weeks.  His area is normally malaria free during their winter months but there is some malaria during the wet season.  I am going on a side trip to Victoria Falls this trip.  All the websites indicate the area is high risk for malaria.  It would be unwise for me to not take some form of anti-malarial medication as a precaution.  Some medications have some bad potential side effects.  Consult with your physician and make an informed decision.