Two friends book a non-export Ele in Zimbabwe. One takes Doxy in his bag but neither take it. Nor do they use Permanone spray. Friend #1 gets a tick on his neck on the second day. Area was too thick to take an ethical shot each day of their 7 day hunt. No shots were fired. They return home and after a week, #1 is sick. Local Hospital has no idea; CDC and WHO are called. Days later #1 tells staff: "I pulled a tick off my neck in Zimbabwe." CDC is advised, Hospital calls in International Health expert; confirmed: Tick Fever as well as the worst of all Malaria strains. #1 is in ICU 8 days, spends 2 nights on death watch. Can't keep any food down, total exhaustion, limbs swelling, 103 fever. Finally after 8 days, fever breaks, moved into private room. Today was able to call me and talk for 5 minutes.
Ladies and Gentlemen: NEVER, EVER, go into areas anywhere in the world where Malaria, Dengue/Tick fever, or any dread disease exists without proper prophylaxis for known illnesses, as well as clothing treatment such as Permanone. This could and should have been avoided. #1 told me he researched on the Internet which claimed this area of Zim wasn't of big concern for Malaria. That is pure BS! Mosquito's are worldwide in tropical/jungle and areas of warmer climate, etc.
I will post more later. LDK

I've had tick fever, not fun! Antibiotics knocks it down quick if you know what the problem is.

I ALWAYS take doxycycline before during and after on every trip - even RSA! If nothing else the doxy helps all the scratches cuts heal quickly…

I took the Malarone every time I went over there. I never got sick.

My friend is an AR member but hasn't posted in a long time. Drama ran him into silence long ago. He's a world hunter and knew better; I thought. Personally, I take Larium (pills) and Coulston Duranon Permethrin on boots & clothing. I have found no other repellent that kills biting insects as well as Coulston's. It kills Ticks within minutes after contact with your treated clothing. Buy it here: https://scs-mall.com/products/...riant=32897966211158

Took Doxy for a few years in Africa and Borneo. No issues with tick fever or malaria. Had dengue.

Bugger Larium. Will never take that again.

I had tick fever in South Africa.

It was not fun at all.

But, taking medication and not use it really takes the cake!

I have friends like that, who we keep reminding every day to take them.

Good reminder to stay vigilant. Best to your friend.


The permethrin spray mentioned is ubiquitous under the Sawyer brand in most places. I believe they are who supplies our military. It is very good stuff.

2nd vote against Larium. I really really hate that medication.

I have never had tick fever (thank goodness!)but I have seen lots of ticks and other creepy crawlies on game.

I had a tracker sitting beside me in the back of a bakkie and I was commenting on all of the ticks and fleas and other vermin crawling around on the dead bush pig beside us.

The man said that they jump straight to your crotch.

Several of us have been taking Larium for so many years, never had a negative effect.

Only changed to Malarone to please my doctor.

quote:

Originally posted by Saeed:
Several of us have been taking Larium for so many years, never had a negative effect.

Only changed to Malarone to please my doctor.

No negative effects because one can only go SO crazy… once you are there… you’re there!

I have had no problems taking Larium and again, I can't stress enough to use protection on your boots and clothing. Use only as directed. There are other preventatives, so protect yourself.

quote:

Originally posted by BaxterB:

quote:

Originally posted by Saeed:
Several of us have been taking Larium for so many years, never had a negative effect.

Only changed to Malarone to please my doctor.

No negative effects because one can only go SO crazy… once you are there… you’re there!

That explains it!

On a scale of 1-100 of being crazy, I am sure I am 110!

quote:

Originally posted by Rockdoc:
Bugger Larium. Will never take that again.

+1, there are good reasons it is no longer regarded as the best therapeutic for a malaria prophylactic.