More jabs than Tyson

Over the past two months its fair to say that i have been a human pin cushion! On top of the stresses of organising what to take, how to carry it and where to go on a 7 month, 11,000 mile bike ride. I have had the small issue of receiving the appropriate vaccinations for travelling through Eastern Europe and Africa.

During my first meeting with the local Travel Health Clinic the general feel was, "why are you doing this?" and "you're probably going to die but if you don't die then lets write down what you need to be aware of." Well lets face it, the list of what i shouldn't be aware of is probably shorter. However, after a little persuasion and the help and good nature of my "personal arm stabber" we managed to make a list of what i needed and here is the song sheet:

Rabies

Meningitis

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis A

Typhoid

Polio

Tetanus & Diphtheria

Cholera

Tick borne encephalitis

Yellow Fever

Malaria Tablets

Not all of these are just one Jab, most are a course of two or three and they don't come cheap. Honestly, i have lost count how much i spent, (around £650) so if you're thinking about travelling through Africa you must ensure you have taken into account the sting in your wallet not just the sting in your arm!

If it wasn't for my kind nurse Gill who wants to remain anonymous as she "looks terrible in photos" (her words not mine) then i would never of gone back after my first visit for more punishment. I suppose i should be thankful for Gill although i have to apologise for the secret picture! i think the smiley face portrays how much she enjoyed putting me through pain anyway!