These are serious diseases and are prevalent in developing
countries.
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All GC students should already have received this vaccination,
as well as a measles booster since their first birthday.
Tetanus-Diphtheria (T-d):
Tetanus results when bacteria enters the body through
a contaminated deep cut or wound. Diphtheria produces severe effects
in the nose, throat and airway. Both diseases can be fatal.
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A booster shot within the last 5 years is required.
TB skin test (After SST):
Tuberculosis skin test (TB):
Tuberculosis of the lungs is common throughout the
world. The TB infection can be transmitted by inhaling infective
droplets that are sneezed or coughed into the air.
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A TB skin test is recommended 90 days after returning
to the U.S.
Hepatitis A:
This disease is very common in developing countries.
The virus produces an inflammation of the liver which can be severe.
Transmission occurs by consuming contaminated food or water.
One injectable Hepatitis A vaccine prior to departure
is required.
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To get long-term protection, a booster between six
and 12 months after the initial dose is recommended.
Hepatitis B:
Hepatitis B is caused by a virus that affects
the liver. Since it is prevalent in Tanzania, students need to be protected. Hepatitis B
vaccine coverage is a series of 3 injections over 6 months.
Typhoid Fever:
This disease is very common in developing countries
and can be contracted from consumption of contaminated food,
water or other unsterile beverages.
––
Injectable vaccine: One dose to be repeated every
two years as indicated.
Polio:
Polio is a severe viral disease spread by food, water
or person-to-person contact.
Polio may cause paralysis and/or death.
––
All GC students should have completed the polio vaccination
series as a child. Since polio is still present in some countries,
a booster prior to departure is recommended.
Antimalarial medication:
Malaria is a serious disease that occurs
when an infected Anopheles mosquito bites a person, injecting
malaria parasites into the blood.
Symptoms are flu-like and may include fever,
chills, muscle aches, headache, vomiting,
diarrhea and coughing.
There are two different medications used
to prevent malaria in Tanzania:
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Doxycycline 100 mg
One tablet taken orally, once a day, beginning one to two
days prior to departure, daily while in the malaria risk
area and continuing for four weeks after leaving the malaria
risk area
––
Malarone
One tablet taken orally, once a day, beginning one to two
days prior to departure, daily while in the malaria risk
area and continuing for seven days after leaving the malaria
risk area
It is recommended that persons who plan
to stay for a prolonged period of time in Tanzania take a daily tablet of Primaquine
for two weeks after leaving the malaria risk area.
Yellow Fever:
Yellow fever is a viral disease transmitted
by mosquitos.
A yellow fever vaccination
certificate is valid for 10 years.