In May 2007 I went to Namibia and got all the recommended immunizations (polio, DPT, Hep A) In 2008 I went thru chemo. I want to go back to Namibia in 2009 and my question is do I need to redo all the immunizations again?

That might depend on the type of chemo you had. Did your treatment include killing your bone marrow and then having donor cells from another person implanted to change your blood?

Ann,

No,it wasn't that intense. I had 35 radiation treatments but only 6 chemo over a seven week period.

Elkfitter,

Go to whoever did your first shots after consulting the CDC website for the necessary shots. They should know what you might need or not need.

Please do not listen to "You probably can get by without.....".

Mark

CDC website???

Elkfitter,

Center for Disease Control www.cdc.gov The bible on what you need for immunizations etc for any foreign country. Follow the prompts and it will take you to Namibia and what is necessary.

Mark

bottom line, no. unless you went through total bone marrow suppression in preparation for a marrow or stem cell transplant, your basic immune system is still intact once it recovers from the temporary effects of courses of chemo. i have been through 2 six month courses of chemo for non Hodgkins lymphoma and the only thing i do when going to Africa is take malaria prophylaxis( p.s., i am also a physician AND stayed at a Holiday Inn Express!!!!!)

Ask your treating physician! Not a web forum, for Gods' sake! Why would you even consider following the advice posted on a forum regarding such an issue?

Merry Christmas and I hope all goes well for you.

quote:

Originally posted by elkfitter:
Ann,

No,it wasn't that intense. I had 35 radiation treatments but only 6 chemo over a seven week period.

Elkfitter,

I meant to add that I think it is great you came through treatment and are now healthy enough to go on safari! Congrats!

Lion,

If my oncologist had her way I'd be spending the rest of my life in a recliner watching TV. Just looking for a range of opinions and what better place than AR.

JD & Ann
Thank you both!