Yes, I got one to go into Botswana. It was reccomended and the Dr. felt it was needed. I don't think it was expensive and there were no side effects. I am from the "better safe than sorry" school.

Thanks for the info, my doctor also recommended it, along with Hep A & B, and malarone (malaria pills)

The only other ones that were suggested was to be up to date on tetnus and a polio vacine.I thought polio was erradicated, but it is still active in some parts of southern Africa. Have a wonderful and safe trip.

Typoid is essential for Botswana/Zambia. See the Practice nurse at your doctors surgery. Typoid and Hep A are given as one combined injection and is available on prescription. Had my injections for going to Botswana last week. If you are going to Zambia/Zimbabwe you will also need Yellow Fever immunisation (certificate of immunisation required by immigration when entering these countries). This is only available at certain medical centres but your GP should be able to advise, cost about £45.

How far in advance do you recommend getting all your shots. Planning on travelling next year.

I think they recommend 6-8 weeks before travel. You can check with you doctor or better yet, look on the CDC web site. It should have the most up to date information.

Another good idea is to visit a clinic/doctor that specializes in "travel medicine." For example, here in Atlanta, we have a number of travel clinics and doctors, including the one I use which is affiliated with one of our major hospitals. These types of clinic/doctors on focus on working with patients who travel the world and they have the latest information on necessary vaccinations and medications. Most major cities have travel clinics/practitioners.

If you visit the website for the International Society of Travel Medicine (http://www.istm.org/) and click on the "Travel Clinic Directory" link, you can search by country and then by state and it will provide a list all of the doctors and clinics who specialize in travel medicine in your area.

Susan

Thanks for all the great info!

Hello,

I'd definitely recommend getting the typhoid jab -- as others have said it has few side effects.

Definitely make sure that you are up-to-date on all of your 'standard' jabs like diphtheria, tetanus and polio. A lot of people concentrate on the more exotic diseases but these old ones are equally important when travelling in Africa.

Have a great trip!

Cheers,

Julian

It's my understanding that there are no required shots only precautionary shots. Is this correct. Unless, of course, you are in Malaria areas then a malaria shot is needed. Please let me know.

Thanks.