yellow fever vaccination

Marianne8

We are traveling in February to Tanzania and Kenya, we have all our meds and immunizations except for yellow fever, which will cost over $400 each and since we are 70 years old, we might have a bad reaction.

Tauck said it was not mandatory but what are the chances of getting stung by a mosquito carrying yellow fever?

azdonna

I would imagine that it is a precaution or it would be required, however you might want to check government suggestions.

Are going on the Feb 23 trip?

Donna

Leo M

Hi Marianne...This is a very difficult question. No one can give you an absolute answer because no one can calculate the odds you might encounter an infection bearing mosquito. When we had to make the same decision, a yellow fever vaccination was not required for entry into Tanzania. That meant we had to decide for ourselves - like you.

Our decision was to ask our doctor. She recommended we get the yellow fever shot. Her logic was compelling. She said, "You are traveling to an area which has and may yet again experience outbreaks of yellow fever. Why would you take the chance of cutting short the retirement travel you have worked forty years to experience?"

We are also in your age group which means we are sensitive to cost too. But...we wanted our first safari to be done right. That's why we chose Tauck and why we followed their instructions to the letter. Our first safari in January 2012 was so fantastic that we went back to Africa again in October 2012. And, we have already scheduled two more safaris for 2013.

I predict you are going to fall in love with Africa. You will want to return. Ask your doctor and follow his/her advice. That one yellow fever shot will last you ten years and give you peace of mind. Ger ready for the trip of your life...Leo M