Health Tips in Lusaka, Zambia

Health Tips in Lusaka, Zambia

In addition to being aware of your health risks, you should also be well informed about some preventive measures. You should be aware of the symptoms of diseases, such as malaria, rabies, and schistosomiasis, and know the Precautions to avoid them. For more information, visit health centres and online resources. For more tips and preventive measures, click on the following links. For Zambians, health tips are not limited to healthy living.

Precautions to avoid

Beware of pickpockets and scammers in Lusaka. These crimes are considered crimes of opportunity and can take place anywhere, including in crowded markets and public transportation. Be on the lookout for "wash wash" techniques, in which a man will snatch a bag or take a valuable from a vehicle. Some visitors have also been sexually assaulted. You should avoid approaching strangers, and do not talk to them unless you know them well. Besides, it is not uncommon for locals to follow you when you withdraw money from ATMs.

Protests are also frequent in Zambia. These may be protests against government policies or international events. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent, so be wary of any protest and flee if possible. In addition, watch out for public demonstrations, as they are usually followed by riots. If you witness one of these, call the police immediately. Make sure to keep a low profile while you're in the area.

Symptoms of malaria

Malaria is a common health problem in Zambia. The parasite responsible for the disease is known as P. falciparum and it can lead to death within hours to days for people with low immunity. Not only can malaria cause death, but it can also lead to malformations, developmental disabilities, and miscarriages among pregnant women. Over 16 million people in Zambia are at risk of malaria. In 2015, over 5 million people contracted the disease in Zambia.

The prevalence of malaria in Lusaka is low to moderate. In children under five, the parasite frequency is less than one percent, while for adults, it ranges from two to 14 percent. It is important to note that malaria is still a major health problem in Lusaka, but fortunately, mortality rates are down. This is especially true in the eastern part of the province, which is more affected by malaria than in any other province.

Symptoms of schistosomiasis

A study in Lusaka, Zambia, has examined the prevalence of schistosomiasis among children in five schools. The children studied were aged between eight and fourteen and in grades three and five. The researchers also analyzed water bodies near the schools for signs of parasites. The findings suggest that schistosomiasis is widespread among Zambian children.

This disease is not well understood in Zambia, and the burden of the infection on the population remains unclear. However, some cases of schistosomiasis, such as peri-portal fibrosis in children, and peripheral fibrosis in adults, have been documented in rural areas. In addition, Mutengo et al. reported cervical biopsies showing S. haematobium infection, which is associated with increased risk of genital malignancy and squamous cell carcinoma.

Most cases of schistosomiasis occur in poor rural areas. Infected women may contract female genital schistosomiasis from water that is contaminated by the worms. Children are also susceptible to infection due to poor hygiene practices and contact with contaminated water. This disease is a major public health concern in Zambia and is more prevalent in rural areas. In Lusaka province, it is most prevalent in Ng'ombe Township. In national surveys, the disease has been documented in this area.

Symptoms of rabies

Rabies is an endemic disease in Zambia, with most dogs free to roam the streets, and a few kept inside houses. Rabies control measures have been implemented in Lusaka and surrounding districts, and rabies vaccinations are administered during mass vaccination campaigns and at veterinary clinics. A household survey in Lusaka revealed a vaccination coverage of only 16%. While cases of rabies in the capital have decreased in recent years, many cases are still reported.

The disease is spread from infected animal to human through contact with its saliva. In developing countries, rabies is most likely transmitted by unvaccinated dogs. Infected animal saliva is the most common cause of rabies infections in humans. Animals that have rabies can transmit the disease through bites, contact with mucous membranes, and organ transplant recipients. Those infected should seek medical care immediately if they suspect they have been bitten by an animal.