Health

Health Measures

Overview

Health and hygiene in most parts of South Africa are of a high standard. There are many well-qualified general practitioners in every town and city to help with medical matters. Large hospitals also have doctors on hand and the country is known for having some of the best trauma units on the African continent.

Tap water is of a high standard in South Africa, however, ensure that you take bottled water along when travelling to the remote rural areas and the bush.

Malaria is found only in the lowveld of Mpumalanga (including the Kruger National Park), in Limpopo, and on the Maputaland coast of KwaZulu-Natal. It is not much of a risk in winter, when the 2010 World Cup is taking place. The most effective measures against malaria are mechanical barriers and the use of insect repellent, body lotions and mosquito nets. Visitors are advised to take prophylactics and should always consult a health practitioner or travel wellness clinic before coming to South Africa.

SAA Netcare Travel Clinics
SouthAfrica.info – Health Tips

Safety Measures

Most parts of the country can be safely visited by tourists, provided they take the basic sensible precautions; for example, not walking alone in deserted areas at night, not flashing photographic equipment or jewellery and, in traffic, maintaining a safe following distance – much like anywhere else in the world. Most major cities run organised crime prevention programmes and Basic Safety Tip guidelines are available at hotels and tourist information offices. If you are in doubt about the safety of a particular area or attraction, contact the National Tourism Information and Safety Line on +27 (0) 83 123 2345. This number may also be used for assistance in replacing lost documents or reporting incidents.

SEO Qualified