There are no immunizations required for entry into Kenya; however, there are some that are highly recommended. The final decision is up to you. We suggest you speak with your personal physician or call the Center for Disease Control at 404-332-4559. You may visit their website at www.cdc.gov. Choose the Traveler's Health menu. We also suggest that you shop around for prices on the different immunizations. You will find that some clinics offer a lower cost than others or you might need to visit several different clinics to get the best prices per immunization.

Following is a list of recommended immunizations and medications:

• Yellow Fever -- A viral disease transmitted to humans by a mosquito bite. Upon receiving this vaccination, you will be given a yellow-signed certificate that you must keep on you during your visit to Kenya. Outbreaks of yellow fever have occurred in Ethiopia and Kenya. If you do not have this proof of vaccination with you on return and there has been an outbreak, they will not allow you return to the US until the outbreak is over.
• Malaria -- There is some risk throughout the year in the whole country, except there is generally no risk in Nairobi and areas above 2,500 meters such as the following provinces: Central, Eastern, Nyanza, Rift Valley and Western. The malaria pills can be acquired with a prescription from your physician. You will begin taking them two weeks prior to departure and continue taking one a week while in the risk areas plus, most importantly, continue taking them for four weeks after returning to the US. Many people tolerate malaria pills with few side effects. Mild nausea, abdominal cramps, headaches, insomnia and strange dreams can occur but tend to be self-limiting and tolerable.
• Hepatitis A -- Series of 2 injections.
• Hepatitis B -- Advised for persons staying in rural areas, or having intimate contact with the local population. Series of 3 injections.
• Polio -- A one-time booster is recommended for people who have previously completed a standard course of polio immunization.
• Typhoid -- Vaccination should be considered for persons venturing off the usual tourist routes into small cities, villages and rural areas.
• Meningitis -- May be acquired through people coughing, mouth-to-mouth, or indirect contact by touching an object recently contaminated with an infected person's nasal secretions.
• Tetanus -- May be contracted through any open wound.

Personal Protective Measures Against Mosquitoes and Ticks and Insects:

• Purchase an insect repellent containing 25-35% DEET.
• Wear light colored clothing; not black, bright prints or patterns.
• Wear long pants or skirts.
• Wear closed-toe shoes or socks.
• Use mosquito nets for sleeping when available.

Traveler's Diarrhea:

Traveler's diarrhea is an acute illness that commonly occurs in international travelers going to developing countries where sanitation is substandard. It occurs when the normal balance in the gastrointestinal tract is upset by the introduction of bacteria, viruses, and parasites contained in food and water. It may be accompanied by any of the following: urgency, bloating, abdominal cramps, nausea, headache, general malaise and low-grade fever. Prevention is key. Besides washing your hands scrupulously with non-contaminated water and soap or antibacterial wipes, the following procedures should be followed:

• Drink purified water or bottled water. Do not brush your teeth using tap water. Do not get water in your mouth while taking a shower.
• Eat foods that are thoroughly cooked, and served piping hot.
• Eat fruits that have thick skins. (They should be peeled at the table by you).
• Avoid salads made with raw vegetables, especially leafy green vegetables.
• Do not use ice cubes in any beverages.
• Only eat and drink dairy products made from pasteurized milk.
• Avoid shellfish and raw undercooked seafood.
• Do not buy or eat food sold by street vendors.

Recommended treatment for traveler's diarrhea is Imodium-AD. Don't leave home without it.

If you are taking any prescription drugs, make a list to keep in a safe place.