Visiting Tanzania and East Africa is a great idea, but tourists must ensure that they stay safe during their travels. 2020 has made it clear that the biggest risk one can face is disease or infection. To stay safe from viruses, and reduce the risk of infection during travel, tourists can take a number of precautions. Here is how to stay safe from risks during your trip:
1. Visit your doctor
Before beginning your travels, you should visit your doctor and get tested for coronavirus, and allergies. Do not travel if you test positive for COVID. It is important to get prescriptions for any necessary medication that you might require, so you can carry them on the flight, and get more if need be. It is a good idea to keep medicines, in case they are not available in East Africa. Testing for allergies can help you avoid getting ill during the trip. It is also prudent to get health insurance in the host country.
Close-Up Drugs Medicine, Image Source: Pexels via Pixabay
2. Be careful what you eat
Before you eat, you should confirm what ingredients went into your food. This is important so you do not accidentally eat or drink something you are allergic to. It is also essential that you ensure that your food has been made in an hygienic environment. If the food is served warm, it is more likely to be clean and safe as heat tends to kill germs.
3. Wear masks & gloves
To reduce the risk of coronavirus transmission, it is essential that you take necessary precautions. If you wear a mask, the risk is greatly reduced as you are less exposed to harmful particles. It is also important that you do not touch surfaces that might be contaminated, and then touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. To prevent this, it is advisable to wear gloves.
Face Mask, Image Source: Juraj Varga via Pixabay
4. Maintain a safe distance
To avoid getting the coronavirus, an important tip is to maintain a safe distance from other people. You should avoid crowded areas, and visit more secluded locations instead. In Tanzania, you can visit Jozani Forest in Stone Town, the gorgeous Pemba Island, or the vast Serengeti. Do not stay in fully booked hotels and lodges. In public places, ensure that people are following social distancing protocols, and stay at least 2 metres away from other people. This can help reduce the risk of virus transmission.
5. Keep hands clean
Avoid touching surfaces that might be contaminated. If you do, sanitize or wash your hands afterwards. Washing hands frequently for at least 20 seconds can be beneficial in reducing risk of infection. If clean water is not available, you can use a sanitizer with over 60% alcohol content. It is advisable to keep a pocket size hand sanitizer during your travels.
6. Airplane Protocols
Many airlines are regularly disinfecting their planes and using air filters to ensure that the risk of spreading disease is reduced. Opt for window seats which are safer as there is less proximity with other passengers. Do not move around too much, and avoid visiting airplane bathrooms which might expose you to contaminated surfaces. Try not to use items such as blankets if they are not sealed, as they might not be disinfected.
Airport Terminal, Image Source: MichaelGaida via Pixabay
We hope you can follow these tips and stay safe during your travels!
