anyone been to kenya in febuary??/

Incapuppy

paulwellerfan wrote: »

there is no harm in asking for any ones views, especally if they have been to kenya...
canvassing opinions... !!!!!!...:rolleyes:

There is no need to swear, and you might wish to read the following definition of canvassing (opinion)

v. can·vassed, can·vass·ing, can·vass·es
v.tr.1. To examine carefully or discuss thoroughly; scrutinize: "The evidence had been repeatedly canvassed in American courts" (Anthony Lewis).
2. a. To go through (a region) or go to (persons) to solicit votes or orders.
b. To conduct a survey of (public opinion); poll.


v.intr.1. To make a thorough examination or conduct a detailed discussion.
2. To solicit voters, orders, or opinions.

n.1. An examination or discussion.
2. A solicitation of votes or orders.
3. A survey of public opinion.

I will state again - the only person that is qualified to give you up-to-date information about the current malaria risks in any part of the world at any particular time is a qualified health professional, be it your GP or a Practice Nurse. Your local pharmacist should also be able to give you the correct advice.

Malaria strains and the areas at risk can and do vary and a health professional will be able to tell you A. if protection is required and B. which is the most suitable anti-malarial for any given area and your own health history.

WolfSong2000

Malarone is generally seen as the anti-malarial of choice because of it's general lack of side effects, but as has been pointed out, it's worth speaking to a professional, as different areas recommend different anti-malarials dependings on the prevalent strains. The only anti-malarial I would personally recommend staying away from is Larium. Speaking personally, I'd rather catch malaria than deal with the potential side effects of that particular drug - and yes, I am aware of how awful malaria can be. My mother had it when pregnant with me, my aunt died from it and I know various other people who have contracted it.

Be aware that drug-resistant strains of malaria are beginning to turn up, so it's worth taking extra precautions. Try and cover up as much as possible (cotton clothing e.g. cheesecloth is a godsend - light, but covers you up a bit) and be liberal with the anti-mozzie spray...citronella works as an excellent alernative (I'm not a big fan of deet, effective as it may be). Also make sure that your mosquito net (if you sleep with one) doesn't have any holes and is well tucked in to your bed.

When you get back, for a good few months afterwards if you get any flu-like symptoms, go see your GP and explain you've recently been on holiday in a country that has problems with malaria. Others here are right when they say that it's a disease that you really do not want to catch!