Britons given Africa travel warning as they face serious health risks – how to stay safe
Kenya is a popular holiday destination, famous for the Masai Mara, the Samburu National Park, Mount Kenya and Mombasa, a beautiful coastal beach city.
But despite it being a loved travel destination, some serious health risks come with a trip there.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) advised Britons on how they can stay safe.
Holidaymakers were told: “Before you travel, check that your destination can provide the healthcare you may need.
“Check you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation.”
The FCDO explained that “this is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant”.
Emergency medical number
In the case of an emergency, Britons were advised to dial 999 and ask for an ambulance.
The FCDO added: “Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.”
Vaccine recommendations and health risks
Before visiting Kenya, holidaymakers were advised to take precautions. The FCDO advised: “At least eight weeks before your trip, check the latest vaccine recommendations for Kenya.
“See where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page.
“See what health risks you’ll face in Kenya, including malaria and dengue, Zika virus, schistosomiasis and mpox. Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Kenya.”
Britons are advised to consult TravelHealthPro for information on altitude sickness.
TravelHealthPro has essential information on malaria and other risks including altitude, biting insects or ticks, dengue, influenza, Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus, outdoor air quality, schistosomiasis and Zika virus.
Holidaymakers can find guidance on the necessary vaccinations at TravelHealthPro.
Medication
Holidaymakers were told: “The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.
“Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.”
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Kenya is a beautiful holiday destination, perfect for animal and nature lovers
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Healthcare in Kenya
Britons were told: “FCDO has a list of medical facilities in Kenya. There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Kenya.”
Travel and mental health
Holidaymakers were advised: “Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.”
This comes as Britons were given other travel health warnings. Holidaymakers were warned about a disease that causes fever, chills and headache.
