Kenya Health Care and Vaccinations
| Title | Special precautions |
|---|---|
| Yellow Fever | Yes* |
| Typhoid | Yes |
| Tetanus | Yes |
| Rabies | Sometimes |
| Malaria | Yes |
| Hepatitis A | Yes |
| Diphtheria | Yes |
* A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers over one year of age arriving from infected areas as listed on the CDC website or the NHS website. It must be said that Yellow fever is also a risk in rural areas of Kenya, therefore vaccination is recommended for those who travel into risky areas.
Health Care
Health insurance is essential. You should ensure that your travel insurance covers the emergency transport required to get you to a hospital in a major city or medical repatriation. Part of the African Medical and Research Foundation (amref.org), the Flying Doctor Service (www.flyingdoctorsafrica.org/membership) has introduced a special Tourist Membership which guarantees that any member injured or ill while on safari can call on a flying doctor for air transport. There are excellent medical facilities in Nairobi and Mombasa, but they are of a varying standard in the rest of the country.
Food and Drink
Drinking the tap water is not recommended as the supply is not reliable, but bottled water is available in most places. When buying bottled water, check the seal of the bottle is intact. Alternatively, bring your own reusable water bottle with a filter or use water purification tablets. Avoid ice and washed salads and fruit except in top hotels and restaurants. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption. Food prepared by unlicensed vendors should be avoided at all times.
Other Risks
Diarrhoeal diseases are common so avoid eating raw, uncooked, unwashed meat, poultry products, dairy products fruits and vegetables or drinking contaminated water or beverages
Hepatitis B is hyperendemic; hepatitis E is widespread. Meningococcal meningitis is a risk, particularly during the dry season. Bilharzia (schistosomiasis) is present; avoid swimming and paddling in fresh water. Avoid insect fly bites and wear shoes to protect against hookworm. Dengue fever and rabies are present. There is a high incidence of HIV/AIDS.
