Diseases in Africa

Diseases in Africa

Africa like other continents of the world has its share of diseases. Some of the most common diseases in Africa include malaria. Some of the risk areas include Botswana, South Africa, Namibia, Swaziland, and Zimbabwe among others. Malaria is a deadly disease that has claimed many lives in Africa. It is spread by the female anopheles mosquito and this occurs when it bites and sucks blood. These mosquitoes are on the loose in the evening and at night. It is advisable for people to sleep under mosquito nets and clear the bleeding grounds for these mosquitoes. Travelers to these countries must always take malaria preventive drugs.

Another common disease in Africa is Yellow Fever and it is prevalent in Sudan, Angola, and Zaire. The local people have developed resistance to this disease though travelers need to take the necessary measures. They need to be vaccinated against the Yellow Fever and they will get a certificate. This certificate is presented along with the other travel documents. This vaccination is given to children older than nine months as well as adults. Children less than four months are however not immunized as well as people who are allergic to eggs as it may be detrimental to their health. Expectant mothers must also not be vaccinated against the Yellow Fever.

Cholera makes another of the common diseases in Africa and it is prominent in the southern African countries. This disease is prone in areas where there is poor sanitation. Travelers must be vaccinated against this disease especially those that are on anti acid therapy and those with stomach ulcers. Cholera is a preventable disease and people must eat thoroughly cooked foods. Fruits must be handled with hygiene and drinking water must always be boiled. Infants under the age of six months as well as expectant mothers must not be vaccinated against cholera. Since the vaccine is only 50% effective, it is important to observe the preventive measures.

Diseases in Africa also include the Typhoid Fever, which is most popular in South African countries. It is most concentrated in the rural areas as well as the smaller cities. Typhoid is a contaminated food and water disease and people must always ensure that the food and water they are taking are clean and free from disease. Food must be thoroughly cooked and drinking water must either be boiled or bottled. Vaccinations against this disease are available and they are up to 90% effective. It is important to note that a typhoid vaccination is not necessary for international travel.

The Dengue Fever is another of the most common diseases in Africa and is most common in Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Swaziland. It is an epidemic disease and people are more exposed to it during the epidemic season. The dengue fever does not have a known vaccine and people must stay away from the mosquitoes that spread it. Mosquitoes that carry the Dengue Fever bite people during the day and it is important to avoid areas that are infested by them. The risk posed by the Dengue Fever is however small though people have to be careful.