There is so much to consider when one travels abroad, especially to a place such as Sudan. Of course, malaria is one of those obvious sort of considerations in travel to Africa!
I received all of my vaccinations back in April (remember these pictures?), but I still needed to take care of getting my anti-malarial meds. Today, Mom and I trekked up to the North side of Indianapolis to Passport Health Services so that I could learn about and stock up on my anti-malarials.
The information is dizzying. First, did you know that there are two kinds of mosquitoes in Africa…one that bites during the day and one that bites at night? I did not know that…but I am certainly aware now! Also, did you know that if you are bitten by a mosquito and it gives you malaria, it can remain dormant in your system for up to 12 months? I did not know that either! The nurse said that if, sometime after my trip, I spontaneously come down with flu-like symptoms in an instant, I should report to the doctor for malaria meds immediately. Yikes!
Luckily, they also provided me with a wealth of information on how to prevent the bites in the first place…from a chemical to spray on my clothes, to military-grade bug lotion, to eating match heads each day (okay, that last one was from my father-in-law who is ex-military).
Anyway, I digress. Because I’m all about passing along information to you…past, present, and future world travelers…I wanted to let you know that I chose to go with the Malarone. There are some other meds, but this one has the fewest side effects. The grand total for 26 pills of Malarone…$234!!! I also purchased an antibiotic called Cipro for traveler’s diarrhea for $15. Plus the office visit…I spent a grand total of $294 today!!
OUCH!
*Edited to Add
