We recommend that you visit your local doctor or local travel clinic before travelling.

Altitude
An important factor to consider when climbing or trekking is the effects altitude may have on your body. All our guides are trained in first aid at altitude and all have experience in dealing with the different forms of altitude sickness.  On all our expeditions we carry a pulse-oximeter which helps determine how your body is adapting to altitude, we also carry a large first aid kit and are able to treat many minor and major ailments.

On peaks above 6000metres we carry a Gamow bag to treat the symptoms of altitude sickness and a member of staff is trained in the use of the device. The Gamow bag is an inflatable pressure bag that is large enough to fit a person inside. If anyone on the expedition gets an extreme form of altitude sickness they can be placed inside the bag which is then inflated by a foot pump decreasing the effects of altitude by as much as 1500 metres.

Dyamox is a preventive drug that can help with many of the symptoms related to altitude sickness. Dyamox can also be used to treat the effects of altitude sickness but it is not a cure.  If you are planning to take Dyamox consult your doctor first.   Another medicine which is known to help with the effects of altitude is Ginkgo Biloba.  It is a herbal medicine and can be purchased from most herbal medicine outlets.

If you do suffer from a severe form of altitude sickness the only real cure is descent to a lower level. If you are unlucky enough to suffer from a severe form of altitude sickness while on one of our expeditions you will be escorted to a lower level by a member of staff with medical training.

One of the most important things at altitude is making sure you keep hydrated.  Staying hydrated can lessen the effects of altitude making you body better equipped for reaching the summit.

Inoculations
The information regarding inoculations is for advice only.  Regulations can change at short notice and it is important you contact you doctor or local travel clinic before travelling.

Argentina
Argentina is a low risk area for malaria and instances are limited to the northern lowlands.  Other diseases including Dengue fever exist but are contained in lowland and jungle areas.  Tap water is generally safe but bottled water is recommended.  Medical facilities are generally of a high standard in Argentina but immediate cash payments are often expected for any treatment.

Russian Federation
Vaccinations are sometimes recommended for Japanese B encephalitis and tick-borne encephalitis. All water should be regarded as a potential health risk and should be boiled or sterilised before consumption.  Russia has a highly developed health service and if a traveller becomes Ill during a visit to Russia emergency treatment is free, with small sums being paid for medicines and hospital treatment.

Africa
The main vaccination you must have for entering Tanzania is Yellow Fever and for some time it has been a compulsory requirement that when you enter Tanzania you have proof that you have been vaccinated against Yellow Fever. This rule seems to change but it is advisable that you take proof of your Yellow Fever vaccination in case it is required when you enter Tanzania. Another important thing to consider when entering Africa is Malaria. There are a few different Malaria medicines and your doctor or local travel clinic will be able to advise you on what is best.

Nepal
Medical treatment is expensive at western travel clinics and health care is poor in most places outside Kathmandu valley and Pokhara. Malaria is found in Nepal but is usually found below 1200 metres in the Tarai and hill districts bordering India. In 2005 there was an outbreak of Japanese Encephalitis from which 3000 cases were reported and 300 people died from the disease. You will require a Yellow Fever certificate if you are travelling from an area with risk of yellow fever transmission. Please see below a list of inoculations that should be considered before entering Nepal.

Some other inoculations that you may consider are:

Africa/Nepal/Argentina/Russian Federation
Typhoid: This disease is caught from contaminated food and water. A single injection lasts for three years.

Africa/Nepal
Polio: The polio vaccine used to be administered by sugar-lump, making it one of the more pleasant inoculations, though these days it’s more commonly injected. Lasts for ten years.

Africa/Nepal/Argentina/Russian Federation
Hepatitis A: This debilitating disease of the liver is spread by contaminated water, or even by using cutlery that has been washed in this water. The latest inoculation involves two injections; the first will protect you for three years, the second, taken six to twelve months later, will cover you for ten years.

Africa/Nepal
Hepatitis B: This is recommended for travellers who may have intimate contact with local residents, especially if visiting for more than 6 months

Africa/Nepal/Argentina/Russian Federation
Tetanus: Tetanus vaccinations last for ten years and are absolutely vital for visitors to Tanzania. The vaccination is usually given in combination with one for diphtheria. Once you’ve had five injections, you’re covered for life.

Africa/Russian Federation
Meningococcal meningitis: This disease of the brain is often fatal, though the vaccination, while not free, is safe, effective and lasts for three to five years.

Africa/Argentina/Russian Federation
Rabies: If you’re spending some time with animals or in the wilderness, it’s also worth considering having a course of rabies injections; it isn’t pleasant, consisting of three injections spread over one month. 

Nepal
Japanese Encephalitis: For long-term (>1 month) travellers to rural areas or travellers who may engage in extensive unprotected outdoor activities in rural areas, especially after dusk

Nepal
Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR): Two doses recommended for all travellers born after 1956, if not previously given.