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14 March 2006: No 17/06

PREVENTION OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES IN THE SANDF

All personnel in the SANDF can reduce their risk of acquiring an infectious disease by taking basic precautions and by practising personal protective measures during operational deployments. Let’s take responsibility for our own health!

Sexually Transmitted Diseases
During deployments, contingent personnel are at risk of acquiring sexually transmitted diseases. Casual sexual contacts should be avoided and safe sex practices should be implemented. Saving lives is as easy as ABC: Abstinence, Be Faithful and Condomise.

Tuberculosis
In Africa, there is a high incidence of tuberculosis, and anyone is at risk of contracting this disease. Individuals who develop a chronic cough, experience night sweats or complain of weight loss should seek medical attention to exclude tuberculosis (TB). Effective treatment is available.

Yellow fever
It is found in certain African and South American countries. The disease is prevented by vaccination which, to be effective, must be given 10 days prior to entering a risk area.

Malaria
The anopheles mosquito transmits malaria in Africa and usually strikes between dusk and dawn. This serious disease can be prevented by avoiding mosquito bites and by daily utilisation of the prescribed prophylactic medication. Early identification and treatment of those who become ill are imperative.

Note. Members who have had their spleen removed (splenectomy) may not visit or be deployed to malaria areas due to their higher risk of mortality when contracting malaria. Special care should also be taken during pregnancy.

Safe Water and Food
Many bacterial, viral and parasitic diseases are transmitted through food and water. Cooked food and purified water will reduce the potential to acquire these diseases. Only bottled or purified water should be drunk and only food prepared by reputable sources should be eaten. Always remember to wash your hands before every meal and after using the toilet or urinal.

Rabies
Is transmitted by animal bites, and animals exhibiting behaviour not normally displayed, such as wild animals suddenly becoming tame, should be avoided and veterinary advice sought.

As the normal behaviour of stray animals is not known, they should be avoided. Prophylactic vaccination is advised for those members deployed to rural areas (where disease is endemic) for prolonged periods of time or members in certain high-risk occupations, such as dog handlers and animal health practitioners.

Bilharzia
Bilharzia is found in rivers, pools and streams in many African countries. Swimming in these waters should therefore be restricted to operational tasks only.

Bilharzia can damage the bladder and may cause bladder cancer. Report to your sickbay or clinic when you have blood in your urine.

Enquiries: D Med or D OHS
Telephone: (012) 671-5911