I guess I wasn't clear on my last post. If a disease is possable in the area take a vaccine if available. On a motorcycle you are subject to the enviroment more than if you are on a bus or car. Also going overland you tend to get off the beaten track a bit, therefore some of the areas may be moore disease than in tourist areas. Also in any country an outbreak of disease can occure at any time. Many countries don't have the recources to recognize them in time, or to treat them effectivly one they are found. In short, get the vaccine.

As for the media they are famious for blowing up a problem, causing attention, law suits start, then they report on the legal problems. It sells!

I am not saying there are not problems with some medications, but malaria is a horrable and deadly disease in many parts of the world. If you want to be trecking through the bush miles from medical care and have an onset of malaria, it is your choice.(It happens FAST) Take the alturnitive meds if recommended. They have side effects as well. Some of the new meds may have side effects that have not been recognized. Take your pick. BTW I worked in the medical field for nine years before changing carrears. I don't claim to be an expert, but I am well informed. In short the risk from the vaccine is far less than the risk from the disease. If you have questions get expert medical advice. Most family doctors are not the ones. In california go to the county health department. They are very helpful and knowledgable. You can also get vaccines for less there than a doctors office. Or do as I did and join the Army. You get all kinds of fun shots for exotic diseases. Yes I had the Japanese Enceflitis series and I did not get sick.

Rabis- its alive and well here in the US. Skunks and bats are big carriers of it.

Dont forget tetnis. I have seen people die of it here in the US. Rare, but it happens even today.

Enjoy the ride!

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John

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John