Rabies is present throughout Southern Africa. For those at high risk, vaccination before arrival should be considered. Be wary of strange animals and if you are bitten, seek medical help without delay.Rabies can be treated effectively with a course of injections.
Snake Bites
Bites, stings and rashes in South Africa are comparatively rare. Snakes are present, but are hardly ever seen as they move out of the way quickly.
The sluggish puff and berg adders are the most dangerous, because they often lie in paths and don’t move when humans approach, however, they’re seldom encountered by travellers.
If you get bitten, try to remember what the snake looked and seek medical attention at the nearest clinic or hospital. Most bites are not fatal.
Tick-bite fever
Tick-bite fever is occasionally contracted from walking in the bush, particularly in long wet grass.Ticks can be minute and you may not spot them.
Symptoms appear a week later - swollen glands and severe aching of the bones, backache and fever. Since it is a self-limiting disease, it will run its course in three or four days.
Ticks you may find on yourself are not dangerous, but make sure you pull out the head as well as the body (it’s not painful). To remove small ones smear Vaseline or grease over them, making them release their hold.
Scorpion and Spider Bites
Scorpions and spiders are numerous, but are hardly ever seen unless you turn over logs and stones. If you’re collecting wood for a campfire, knock or shake it before picking it up. Scorpion stings and spider bites are painful but almost never fatal. Most are harmless and should be left alone.When camping shake out your shoes and clothes in the morning before you get dressed.
