Victoria Falls, with its stunning natural beauty, is a destination to behold.
However, travelers are worried about contracting malaria – and for good reason. Doctors and health experts strongly urge travelers to take precautions before departing as well.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable visit, it’s crucial to take preventive measures seriously. Here are the main 7 you should consider before & during your trip:
1. Preventive Malaria Tablets
Malaria tablets play a strong role in safeguarding against the malaria parasite, as doctors recommend most travelers get a prescription before departing. Consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice tailored to your health needs.
Taking these tablets proactively ensures that, even if a mosquito carrying the malaria parasite bites, your body is prepared to fight off the infection.
It acts as a crucial line of defense in regions where malaria is prevalent, offering you peace of mind during your stay in Victoria Falls.
2. Protective Clothing
Simple yet effective, wearing long sleeves, pants, and closed shoes minimizes exposed skin, reducing the risk of mosquito bites.
- Opt for light and breathable fabrics to stay comfortable in the African heat.
- This clothing not only serves as a physical barrier against mosquito bites but also provides a practical and comfortable solution for navigating the warm climate of Victoria Falls.
- By integrating this precaution into your attire, you seamlessly incorporate a layer of protection into your daily routine.
3. Insect Repellent
Apply an insect repellent with at least 20% DEET on exposed skin to ward off mosquitoes (especially during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active).
- Insect repellent serves as a potent deterrent, disrupting the mosquitoes’ ability to locate and bite you.
- Choosing a product with at least 20% DEET ensures optimal protection, even in areas where mosquito activity is heightened.
4. Air Conditioning
When selecting lodging, prioritize establishments with air-conditioned rooms.
Research has found mosquitoes are less likely to enter air-conditioned spaces, providing a secure haven for a peaceful night’s sleep.
Beyond comfort, the choice of air-conditioned rooms significantly reduces the risk of encountering malaria-carrying mosquitoes indoors.
5. Use Bed Nets for Added Protection
Incorporating bed nets into your nightly routine adds an extra layer of protection against mosquitoes (bonus points if they’re treated with insecticide).
As these nets create a physical barrier, they significantly reduce the likelihood of mosquito bites while you sleep.
Utilizing bed nets is a practical and accessible strategy, especially in regions where mosquitoes are prevalent. This additional precaution enhances your overall defense against malaria and contributes to a more secure and peaceful night’s rest in Victoria Falls.
6. Educate Yourself on Malaria Symptoms
Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of malaria, such as fever, chills, and muscle aches.
Prompt recognition of these symptoms allows for immediate medical attention, boosting the chances of successful treatment if infection occurs.
7. Stay Hydrated and Maintain Nutrition
Proper hydration & nutrition supports overall health and can indirectly contribute to preventing malaria – or at least reduce severity of symptoms and improve recovery, if you contract the disease.
Eating healthy & drinking an adequate amount of water helps your body function optimally, supporting your immune system’s ability to ward off potential infections.
How to Get Preventive Malaria Tablets
Traditionally, getting a prescription involves using in-person clinics and primary care.
However, many travelers are beginning to use online healthcare companies like Runway Health – due to appointment delays, pharmacy stockouts and unaffordable pricing with in-person care.
With Runway Health, you get:
- Convenient Consultations: Skip the delays and hassle of in-person appointments with fast & easy online consultations. Connect with a licensed physician from the comfort of your home.
- Prescription Delivery: Forget about picking up prescriptions. Have your malaria tablets delivered straight to your door within 3-5 days.
- Affordable Pricing: No need to stress over surprise costs – instead, upfront pricing for malaria pills helps you budget for your trip without unexpected price increases.
Connect with a Physician Online →
Final Thoughts on Preventing Malaria While Visiting Victoria Falls
Preventing malaria in Victoria Falls demands a pragmatic approach.
Keep in mind – the geography around Victoria Falls, with its lush vegetation and bodies of water, can influence mosquito breeding.
Incorporating malaria tablets with a well-rounded plan, including protective clothing, insect repellent, air conditioning, and additional tips, will fortify your defenses against this health concern.
As always, consulting a licensed physician ensures a tailored prevention plan aligned with your individual health considerations.
