Prescription Drugs In Africa

Traveling outside of the United States of your home of record can present some problems if you do not check with State Department or Tourism Bureau as to which vaccinations are required for your travel.

It is imperative that you make the connection at least six to eight weeks prior to your travel time so your vaccinations will protect you while on your trip.

What you have to be aware of

When traveling to Africa, one must be aware that some drugs that you may get at home will not be available to you there, or it could be illegal to have them in your possession. A word to the wise to be find out before embarking on the trip to find out if you have prescription medicines that would land you in trouble in Africa.

Remember that traveling to Africa will be different from traveling across country at home. Each jurisdiction will have different rules and regulations regarding prescription medicines and vaccines. It would be wise to familiarize yourself with what is required for each area you plan to visit.

Medical problems have since become obsolete at home, will have a higher incident when you traveling to Africa. Polio and Tuberculosis have almost been eradicated at home, but is prevalent in Africa.

Another high medical occurrence is HIV and of course many of the prescription medications are experimental even at home. Check out what vaccinations you will need for each jurisdiction you plan to visit on your trip because you may find that what is good for one is not for the other area.

You must be careful of the insects that carry malaria as well as the bugs that will bite you and cause a lot of problems. Going to the drug store to pick up a topical ointment will not be an option in most cases, so you must ensure what you are carrying will be acceptable.

Useful tips for your health when traveling to Africa

Go to the foreign travel website and put in the jurisdictions you plan on visiting. The site will give a partial list of vaccinations you will need to enter the country. Better yet, check with your medical provider giving them the exact locations you plan on visiting.

They can then check their list and provide you with an update list of shots and point out any possible medical issues you may need to be prepared for.

Make sure that the topical dressings you carry are allowed in the country as well. Some areas prohibit topical DDT in any form (spay or cream). If you are prone to rashes and need a prescription medicine to clear it up, ask the doctor if it contains any ingredient that is prohibitive in the part of the country you will be traveling to.

This is another reason why you should plan any trip outside of the country with enough time to clear up any problems that may come up because of a prescription medicine you will need.

Heart patients should be especially carefully as some drugs used for heart trouble could be deemed unlawful.