Like most developing countries, Kenya has it's share of risks too - malaria (except in Nairobi and high-altitude areas), cholera, typhoid, hepatitis, schistosomisis (this worm-infection is terrible as it sounds), meningitis, HIV, the Rift Valley fever and yellow fever. You can catch Bilharzia if you swim in some lakes, streams or rivers. That's where this parasite lives. Always check with your guide or the locals before you jump in the water.

Besides people, Kenya is loved by many others. It's a hot favorite of mosquitoes too. No wonder it is a malaria area. Carry anti-malaria pills, mosquito repellents and take other precautions like sleeping under the net etc. Most docs advice one to start popping tablets 2 weeks before you leave for Kenya. Continue throughout your stay here and stop 4 weeks after you return.

Water shouldn't cause any major worries. Tap water in the most big towns is purified and perfectly safe to drink. Remote areas can be dicey in this regard. Always boil water first, except of course if you’re staying at a lodge or hotel where they do it for you. If you don't want to do all this, pick a carton full of bottled water. It's easily available in bigger towns.

Precautions:

• Vaccinations for cholera, tetanus and yellow fever are advised.
• Obviously, carry a 'medical bag' with some regular essentials like a bug repellent, stomach medicines, suntan lotion and skin ointments.
• It is a wise decision to buy travel insurance. God forbid that you'll need it but just incase...., it'll cover accidents, illnesses or hospitalization for the period of your stay.
• Safari-goers should take a temporary membership to the East African Flying Doctors' Service. Members needing urgent medical attention while on a safari are flown to Nairobi for the best medical attention available in the country.