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Health considerations and precautions

GENERAL HEALTH.  FIRST CONSULT WITH YOUR DOCTOR.  It is important to get a full physical first, so your doctor can confirm that you’re fit to travel and participate on a physically demanding trip.  The mission entails long flights (two back-to-back, 8+ hour flights), a great deal of walking, rugged terrain, bumpy van rides, lifting heavy luggage, unpredictable schedules and unfamiliar food.  We will not always be within easy reach of medical care, and health facilities in some of the areas we are visiting are primitive by Western standards.  Please take these considerations seriously.  Your health and the safety of the team is our top concern. 

BASIC TRAVEL HEALTH PRECAUTIONS.

— If you take any prescription drugs, make a list to keep in a safe place.

— Pack all medications in your carry-on, and put a DUPLICATE supply in your checked luggage.

— If you wear glasses or contacts, bring an extra pair.

— If you have chronic medical problems or significant allergies, wear a medical alert bracelet.

— Drink plenty of water (bottled) to prevent dehydration.

— Learn about the risks of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) on long flights.  Follow inflight exercise recommendations to improve circulation and help decrease your risk of this rare but serious condition.

— Carry antibacterial gel, Imodium and a small first aid kit for yourself. The team will also have larger first aid kit as well.

FOOD SAFETY AND TRAVELER’S DIARRHEA.  Traveler's diarrhea is common in travelers going to developing countries.  It occurs when the normal balance in the G-I tract is upset by the introduction of bacteria, viruses, and parasites contained in food and water. Symptoms include diarrhea, urgency, bloating, abdominal cramps, nausea, headache, general malaise and low-grade fever.  Recommended treatment for traveler's diarrhea is Imodium-AD and a prescription antibiotic like Cipro, if necessary.  Help prevent traveler’s diarrhea by:

— Drink purified water or bottled water (make sure the cap was unbroken). 

— Do not brush your teeth using tap water. 

— Do not get water in your mouth while taking a shower.

— Eat foods that are thoroughly cooked, and served piping hot.

— Eat fruits that have thick skins.  (They should be peeled at the table by you).

— Avoid salads made with raw vegetables, especially leafy green vegetables, because of high water content.

— Do not use ice cubes in any beverages.

— Only eat and drink dairy products made from pasteurized milk.

— Avoid shellfish and raw undercooked seafood.

— Wash your hands well and often with non-contaminated water and soap, or antibacterial wipes

— Do not buy or eat food sold by street vendors.

PROTECTION AGAINST MOSQUITOES AND INSECTS.  There's a risk of catching malaria pretty much everywhere you travel in Kenya. Nairobi and the highlands (where Nyeri is) are considered low-risk areas, but precautions are wise:

— See the Travel Vaccine Information page for info on malaria prophylaxis.

— Purchase an insect repellent containing 25-35% DEET.

— Wear long pants or skirts.

— Wear closed-toe shoes or socks.

— Use mosquito nets for sleeping when available.

PERSONAL SAFETY.  In general, people are extremely friendly in Kenya and you will be humbled by their hospitality. But you will also soon realize that you are far richer and more fortunate than most local people you meet. You will probably attract your fair share of souvenir hawkers and beggars.  Be cautious but not rude.  Whether or not to give money to people on the street is a personal decision, but we’ve learned many Kenyans themselves advise against it, because they feel it reinforces a negative culture of dependency.  Do take the time to meet ordinary people going about their day-to-day business — shopkeepers, security guards, drivers, farmers.  Don't be afraid to step out of that tour bus, just take some precautions and it’ll be worth it.

Basic Safety Rules for Travelers to Kenya.

— Make a copy of your passport and keep it in your luggage.

— Don't walk on your own at night.

— Don't wear jewelry.  Simple wedding rings are ok.  An inexpensive watch is ok, too.

— Don't carry too much cash with you. 

— Wear a money belt that fits under your clothes.

— Don't carry a lot of camera equipment, especially in the major cities.

— Beware of thieves posing as police officers.

Go to Travel Vaccine Information.

*Includes information from MDTravelHealth.com