Vaccinations and Visa Info for Mt. Kilimanjaro Adventure 6/2021

Data that I have prepared for the CDC regarding vaccinations to Kilimanjaro in particular.

Please make an appointment with a local travel clinic or your doctor to discuss the necessary vaccinations and that you have them done early in case you have side effects.

Tanzania is endemic to Yellow Fever. Since Tanzania is endemic to Yellow Fever it is the only mandatory vaccination needed. You need to have this vaccination 10 days prior to entry to Tanzania and most countries of Africa.

CDC also recommends the following vaccinations:

Some of the vaccinations mentioned below are routine vaccinations. It would be recommended that you speak to your health care professional about routine vaccinations including MMR (measles, mumps and rubella), chicken pox, Diphtheria, *tetanus, polio and your yearly flu shot. COVID vaccination should also be considered.

1. Hepatitis A and B

2. Typhoid

3. *Tetanus

4. Rabies

5. Cholera

6. Malaria - this vaccine was approved in 2021, Yeah!!

Mosquitos are not generally above 6,000 feet, so you are relatively safe while on the mountain. Malaria is a parasite and is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito, anopheles. It just takes one bite of an infected mosquito! It has been shown to be fatal! The vaccination is a tremendous medical accomplishment! I remember when I was in medical school, our infectious disease class advised us that whoever comes up with a vaccine against Malaria would become rich. So much of the world is already infected.

Medications that help with Malaria prophylaxis include Hydroxychloroquine, yes, the same controversial medication used in an attempt to control COVID-19! Also quinine is used. The WHO (World Health Organization) recommends that you combine this treatment with doxycycline, tetracycline, or clindamycin. Make sure you discuss the dosing with your healthcare provider. Oftentimes quinine has side effects and you need to develop tolerance to the medication first!

Intestinal trouble and Travelers Diarrhea:

By far the most common ailment affecting travelers to remote parts of Africa is intestinal problems. Diarrhea caused by viruses, bacteria and parasites can be difficult to treat.

You can avoid the ailments meticulously using food, water, and hygiene. Your climb will include clean purified drinking water. All food is sourced, stored, and prepared to avoid any possible contamination.

Medications to bring with you:

1. Antimalarials

2. Ciprofloxin or similar antibiotic to treat bacterial diarrhea.

3. Diamox - very helpful in acclimatization for the altitude

4. Ibuprofen

Before you go, there will be a 'medical questionnaire' to fill out, and it is generally recommended to have a full medical check up with your doctor before you embark.

Covid

As of this date the total deaths in 2019 was 2,845,793 (not just COVID) in the USA, as reported by the mortality (M&M) reports from the CDC. 2020 total deaths won't be reported for several more months, however, because of the Pandemic, it is expected to exceed the total deaths reported in 2019. So far it has been suggested that the total number of deaths will be >3,200,000. That is an increase in the death rate of greater than 12%! Now, the increase is across the board, however, COVID-19 represents >350,000 of that increase. It has been suggested that Heart Disease still remains number one for the total deaths followed by cancers. COVID was 3rd in total deaths.

Why am I pointing out this information? Well, this pandemic has resulted in one of the worst death rates since the 1940's! However, heart disease and cancers are still leading the way!

We don't know what is in store for us, so we MUST seize the day, CARPE DIEM!!!!

Our adventures are designed to do just that! We are endeavoring to allow one to experience the best that our planet has to offer!! Climbing mountains, white water rafting, paragliding, Antarctica excursions, kayaking in the wilds of Canada, wine tasting with somaliers in France, Tuscany and Napa, sightseeing the world's greatest wonders and many more!! Please join us for the adventures of a lifetime!!!! Don't let this pass you by! You won't regret it!

Dr. C - out!

Passport and Visa:

All visitors need a valid current passport.

A Tanzania Visitor Visa. Most foreign visitors need a Travelers Visa, there are exceptions. The USA is not one of them. You do not need to obtain one until you arrive in Tanzania. It will be issued at the port of entry. You will also need to show proof of Yellow Fever vaccination for entry.