Health tips for traveling to Zanzibar

1. Get Vaccinated Before You Go
Vaccinations are an important part of travel preparation, especially to tropical destinations like Zanzibar. Some vaccines are recommended or required to protect you from diseases that may be prevalent in the area.

• Recommended Vaccines:

  • Yellow Fever: A yellow fever vaccination is required for travelers coming from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission.
  • Hepatitis A and B: Hepatitis A can be contracted through contaminated food or water, while Hepatitis B is transmitted through bodily fluids.
  • Typhoid Fever: Typhoid is a risk in areas with poor sanitation, and vaccination is recommended for most travelers.
  • Malaria: While Zanzibar has made significant strides in reducing malaria risk, travelers should consider taking anti-malarial medications if recommended by their doctor.

• Additional Health Advice:

  • Routine Vaccines: Make sure you are up to date on routine vaccinations like measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), tetanus, and diphtheria.
  • Consult a Travel Health Specialist: Always check with your healthcare provider or a travel clinic well in advance of your trip for personalized vaccination recommendations.

2. Stay Hydrated and Drink Safe Water
Zanzibar’s tropical climate can be hot and humid, making it essential to stay hydrated throughout your stay.

• Drink Bottled Water: Avoid tap water to reduce the risk of waterborne diseases. Stick to bottled water, or use water purification tablets if you’re staying in remote areas.
• Electrolytes: To combat dehydration, especially in the hot climate, consider drinking electrolyte-rich drinks like coconut water or oral rehydration solutions.

3. Protect Yourself from Mosquitoes
Zanzibar is located in a tropical zone where mosquitoes can transmit diseases like malaria and dengue. Here’s how to minimize your risk:

• Use Insect Repellent: Apply a repellent with DEET or picaridin on exposed skin and clothing to ward off mosquitoes.
• Wear Long Sleeves and Pants: During dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active, wear long sleeves and pants to minimize exposed skin.
• Mosquito Nets: If you’re staying in an area with a higher malaria risk, make sure your accommodation provides a mosquito net over the bed or bring your own.

4. Sun Protection
Zanzibar’s sunny climate means that it’s easy to get sunburned, especially if you’re spending a lot of time outdoors.

• Wear Sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming.
• Wear a Hat and Sunglasses: Protect your face and eyes from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses.
• Seek Shade: Whenever possible, take breaks in the shade, particularly between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun is at its peak.

5. Be Careful with Food
Zanzibar is known for its delicious street food, but it’s important to be cautious about what you eat to avoid foodborne illnesses.

• Eat Cooked Food: Avoid eating raw or undercooked food, especially seafood or meats. Opt for freshly cooked meals to reduce the risk of stomach upset.
• Street Food: While street food can be tempting, choose vendors who appear busy with a high turnover, as this indicates freshness.
• Wash Hands: Always wash your hands with soap and water before eating, or use hand sanitizer when soap isn’t available.

6. Avoiding Travel-Related Illnesses
To keep your digestive system in check while traveling, be mindful of what you consume.

• Eat at Reputable Restaurants: While Zanzibar has a range of dining options, choose those with good hygiene standards to avoid illnesses like traveler’s diarrhea.
• Take Probiotics: Consider taking probiotics before and during your trip to help maintain a healthy gut and avoid stomach upset.

7. First-Aid Kit and Medication
It’s always a good idea to travel with a basic first-aid kit, as well as any personal medications you might need.

• Pack a First-Aid Kit: Include items like band-aids, antiseptic, pain relievers (ibuprofen or acetaminophen), and any over-the-counter medicines for common travel ailments.
• Prescriptions: If you take prescription medications, ensure you have enough for your entire stay. It’s also helpful to carry a copy of your prescription in case you need to replace it while abroad.

8. Know the Signs of Malaria and Dengue
While Zanzibar has made strides in reducing malaria transmission, it’s still a risk in some areas. Be aware of the symptoms and seek medical help if necessary.

• Malaria Symptoms: Fever, chills, sweating, headaches, body aches, and fatigue are common malaria symptoms.
• Dengue Symptoms: High fever, severe headaches, joint and muscle pain, and rash are typical symptoms of dengue fever.

If you experience any of these symptoms during your stay, seek medical attention immediately.

9. Travel Insurance
Before embarking on your trip, consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, including illness, injury, or trip cancellations.

• Emergency Services: Zanzibar has several medical facilities, but for serious medical conditions, you may need to be referred to Dar es Salaam or another nearby city.
• Travel Insurance Benefits: Insurance will ensure that you have access to the appropriate medical care without worrying about high medical costs.

10. Respect Local Health Guidelines
Zanzibar has local health guidelines to ensure the safety of travelers and residents alike. Be sure to follow any official health guidelines related to COVID-19 or other public health matters.

• Stay Informed: Check the latest travel advisories and health updates from local authorities or the World Health Organization (WHO) before traveling.

Zanzibar is a tropical paradise that attracts travelers from all over the world. By taking these health precautions and being mindful of your surroundings, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Whether you’re exploring the pristine beaches or immersing yourself in the local culture, these health tips will help you stay safe and make the most of your visit. Future African Safari can assist in planning your trip and ensuring a smooth, enjoyable experience on this beautiful island.