Risks, prevention, security
Like for all countries in the world, specific health considerations apply to Botswana. We emphasize that the information provided here is intended to give you an overview of the most important aspects, but it does not replace personal medical advice. Before embarking on your trip, be sure to consult a tropical medicine clinic or travel medicine specialist for advice on health precautions.
Medical care on site
Medical care in Botswana is generally better than in many other countries on the continent. However, it is not comparable to South African or European standards. Always consider the size of the country and its sparse population. Therefore, the routes from an accident site to a clinic are always lengthy. Medical care in case of illness is very limited, especially in the tourist centres of Kasane and Maun. Therefore, please inform yourself in advance about treatment options on site if you have pre-existing conditions. Adequate health insurance coverage valid in Botswana and reliable repatriation insurance are essential.
Okavango air rescue
With every Consafarity booking, you will receive an "Okavango air rescue" membership through us, valid for one year. This entitles you to helicopter emergency assistance with a doctor. The doctor will then decide on your further treatment and, if necessary, your transfer to a hospital (optionally also in Johannesburg) – but this does not exempt you from the obligation to have health insurance.
Vaccinations
The U.S Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends checking and completing standard vaccinations
according to the current vaccination schedule for children and adults before traveling. In addition to the common vaccinations (such as measles-mumps-rubella, polio, tetanus, etc.), vaccinations against hepatitis A, and in the case of long-term stays or special exposure, hepatitis B, rabies, meningococcal disease (ACWY), and typhoid are recommended. We strongly recommend that you consult your family doctor on the subject of "vaccinations".
Malaria
Malaria can occur in different areas of Botswana, so you should consult your doctor or the tropical institute regarding this matter. They will advise you on the different options for (medication) prophylaxis. Long-sleeved shirts and long pants are recommended in the evening, as well as insect repellent and mosquito nets. The greatest risk of infection is after the rainy season from mid-January to April.
Yellow fever
Proof of a valid yellow fever vaccination is required when entering from a yellow fever area (e.g., Kenya or Uganda). Travelers from non-endemic areas (e.g., Europe) only need a yellow fever vaccination if they leave the airport during a stopover in a yellow fever area or wait for their connecting flight at the airport for at least 12 hours. A transit of less than 12 hours does not require proof of yellow fever vaccination.
Insects
If you are walking in tall grass, we recommend applying tick protection, as ticks can transmit certain diseases. If you experience symptoms such as fever and fatigue, you should see a doctor immediately.
Schistosomiasis (Bilharzia)
Schistosomiasis is endemic in almost all freshwater bodies in Botswana (e.g., Limpopo and Molopo rivers, along the Okavango and Chobe rivers). Bathing, diving, and any other water sports in lakes and rivers, including the Zambezi, should be avoided.
Diarrheal diseases and Cholera
Most diarrheal diseases can be avoided through proper food and drinking water hygiene. If you want to protect your health during your stay, follow these guidelines: Drink only water of safe origin, such as bottled water, never tap water. In an emergency, use filtered, disinfected, or boiled water. Use drinking water for washing dishes and brushing teeth while on the go. For food; cook or peel it before eating. Keep flies away from your food. Wash your hands with soap as often as possible, always after using the toilet, and always before preparing and eating food. We recommend to disinfect your hands where appropriate, and use disposable towels if necessary.
Anthrax
Local and temporary outbreaks of anthrax occur repeatedly in Botswana. Contact with diseased animals can also be dangerous for humans. In particular, hippos and buffaloes can be affected. An effective preventive measure is to stay away from dead animals, e.g., during walking safaris.
Country-Specific (HIV/AIDS)
Approximately 22% of adults between the ages of 15 and 49 in Botswana are HIV-positive. Transmission generally occurs through sexual contact, drug use (unclean syringes or needles), and blood transfusions.
