First Aid Supplies Needed For A Tanzania Safari - And How Not To Need Them

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Apart from luggage, clothing and toiletries, one of the essentials to pack while on safari is first aid

. Though facilities on safaris have improved vastly in recent times, it is important to remember that you are still on a journey in the wild. Do not grow complacent, but do not panic either.

Essential first aid items include -

For injuries -

1.Antiseptic
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2.Sticking plaster

3.Crepe bandages

For fevers, colds and random aches -

4.Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin

5.Tylenol (acetaminophen in the US, paracetamol in the UK and Commonwealth)

For allergies and bug bites -

6.Insect repellant cream, preferably citronella as it is natural and mild on the skin

7.Anti-histamine drugs - check with your doctor for something that will not make you drowsy

Miscellaneous -

8.Throat drops

9.Eye drops - artificial tears can be very useful to combat dust-induced stinging

For fatigue -

10.Energy bars - granola or nutri-bars are great. You can even make your own by wrapping seeds, dry fruit, molasses or honey together in cling foil.

11.Oral rehydration solution. While at home, a lemon-salt-sugar solution will suffice, but on the road make sure to carry pre-packaged sachets.

12.Your regular prescription drugs. Carry a few extra, just in case they get dropped or your trip gets extended.

Talk to your doctor before you leave, and make sure to get his recommendation on the following subjects -

Over-the-counter drugs for common ailments - colds, stomach trouble, migraines, injuries etc

Emergency supplies and procedure for any chronic conditions you may have, such as diabetes

Vitamins or protein shakes to keep your energy levels up, if needed

Anti-malaria drugs with minimal side-effects. Quinine can also be taken in preventive doses, so inquire about this too

Allergies to unknown foods or bug bites. Usually, oral anti-histamines will be enough, but people prone to life-threatening allergic reactions will need to carry an epi-pen.

Finally, some quick guidelines to ensure that you stay healthy during your trip through the wondrous Serengeti, Ruaha, Selous or Ngorongoro -

1.Get adequate sun protection. You do not want to be dealing with sunburn or sunstroke, trust me.

Do not go out in the sun on an empty stomach. Carry small packs of biscuits and water

Wear sunblock and reapply it whenever your skins starts stinging

2.Keep your hands clean. Swine flu prevention guidelines would be good to stick to here. Wash your hands or use a hand sanitizer frequently, and try not to touch your face with dirty hands.

3.DRINK WATER. I cannot stress this enough. Water keeps fatigue, sunstroke and digestive troubles at bay better than any medicines. Even if you survive on a couple of glasses per day right now, you will be surprised at how quickly your muscles start cramping on a newly hectic schedule.

Now that you are prepped to stay hale and hearty during your safari, put your lingering fears behind and throw yourself into the experience. You do not want to miss a moment!

by: Gen Wright

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