Botswana is a popular destination for Australian travellers. Tourists will often start in Maun and travel via the Okavango Delta to Victoria Falls and Zimbabwe. Accommodation will vary from high-end boutique hotels and resorts found in many National Parks to the very basic homestays. Botswana may be the starting point of an overland truck safari to East Africa. These trips require a good health preparation. A strong understanding of the tropical diseases in the region can be an asset.
Health advice will vary according to the reason for travel (holiday, work, volunteering, visiting friends or relatives), accommodation (5-star resort, Airbnb, home stay) length of stay, time of year (wet or dry season) and location (urban or rural).
Exotic disease does occur and there are a number of health concerns which might impact on your stay. It is important to be current for all your routine vaccines and to seek advice on whether other travel vaccines need to be considered. Speak with a healthcare provider 6-8 weeks before travel. Your current health status may also influence your travel preparation.
Completed childhood immunisations, Tetanus/ Diphtheria/ Pertussis vaccine booster if > 10 years, Influenza > 65 years, Influenza > 6 months and < 5 years, Pneumonia vaccine > 65 years, Shingles > 65 years, RSV vaccine > 75 years.
To consider if immune-suppressed (check with health provider).
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B (if unvaccinated), Typhoid, Influenza, COVID-19.
Rabies, Polio booster.
Rabies.
Measles booster if born between 1966 and 1980.
Yellow Fever - Refer to CDC.
Consider taking a basic medical kit plus extras according to your intended activities. Always carry a letter regarding your medications and make sure it is easily accessible. Never travel without insurance.
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