Health Issues

Malaria, a potentially serious illness spread by the Anopheles mosquito, occurs only in the northeast of the country, roughly from Etosha National Park northwards. If you’ll be visiting these areas, speak to your doctor about taking anti-malaria medication. The prophylactic course usually starts well before your departure, so planning ahead is vital.

If you have any flu-like symptoms after you return home, see your doctor immediately and let him/her know that you’ve been in a malaria area.

Prevention is always better than cure, so wear loose-fitting long-sleeved shirts and long pants with cuffs, use a good insect repellent (especially between sundown and sunrise, when mosquitoes are most active), and sleep under a mosquito net if possible.

Where malaria occurs in Namibia: http://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk/destinations/africa/namibia/namibia-malaria-map.aspx

Vaccinations recommended for travellers to Namibia include those for Hepatitis A and B, typhoid and rabies.Polio and tetanus booster shots are also a good idea. Speak to your medical professional about the suitability of these vaccinations for you.