I am travelling to Africa and hope to take in Kenya. What health preparations should I make

A.� Vaccinations are recommended against typhoid; hepatitis A and B; diphtheria;� tuberculosis; rabies; meningococcal meningitis and yellow fever. Inoculation should take place at least a fortnight before you travel - or three months in the case of the TB jab. Some of them require an initial shot followed by a booster, and some vaccinations should not be given together. Make sure also that tetanus and polio vaccinations are kept up to date. Record all vaccinations on an International Health Certificate, available from your GP.< xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" />

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Q.� Some of these are terrible diseases. Is there really a risk

A.� You'd better believe it. Tetanus can be a fatal from a small cut. Diphtheria can start like an ordinary throat infection - and then kill you. Meninogococcal meningitis is a disease that even healthy people carry - but can snuff out your life within a few hours.

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Q.� What about malaria I hear that can be a problem.

A.� Several regimens are recommended, including Mefloquine or Proguanil and Chloroquine. Anti-malarial drugs do not prevent you from getting malaria, but kill the parasites and reduce the risk of your becoming very ill or dying. Get advice from your doctor or pharmacist, because there are many factors to consider - including where you are visiting and medication's side-effects.

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Q.� It sounds all so daunting.

A.� Yes, it does. But don't give up! Here are a few general tips:

• Make sure you're healthy before you start travelling - and that includes your teeth.
• If you require a particular medication take a good supply. Take the prescription or the packaging showing the generic name.
• If you wear glasses or contact lenses take a spare pair and your prescription.

Q.� What about health insurance

A.� It's a good idea to get a separate travel insurance policy to cover theft, loss and medical problems. Your travel agent will be able to recommend a good one. It's probably better to buy a policy that pays doctors or hospitals direct so you don't have to pay on the spot and claim later. Check if the policy covers ambulances or an emergency flight home.

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Q.� Should I take a medical kit

A.� Yes - a basic one is a splendid idea. Include:

• Aspirin or paracetamol for pain or fever
• Bandages and plasters for minor injuries
• Cold and flu tablets and throat lozenges
• Calamine lotion to ease irritation from bites and stings
• Antihistamine, useful for colds and allergies, to ease the itch from insect bites or stings and to help prevent travel sickness
• Antibiotics, useful if you're travelling in a remote spot. These will be available only on prescription
• Anti-diarrhoea tablets
• Antiseptic for treating cuts and grazes

Q.� Any more tips

A.� Yes. If you're worried about any aspect, ask your GP.

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By Steve Cunningham