Here’s What You Should Know About Health and Safety

Hello DjangoCon Africa family,

We’re really excited to welcome you to DjangoCon Africa 2025 in Arusha, Tanzania! As we prepare for this unforgettable gathering of the Django community, we want to make sure everyone arrives informed and ready, not just for great talks and connections, but for a safe and healthy stay.

Please take a moment to go through these important health tips before you travel:

🦟 Malaria & Mosquito-Borne Illnesses

Arusha is a region where malaria is present, so it's a good idea to take anti-malarial medication as a precaution. You’ll need to speak with your doctor or travel clinic ahead of time to get a prescription.

The most commonly recommended options include:

• Atovaquone-proguanil (Malarone)
• Doxycycline
• Mefloquine (Lariam)

Just a heads-up: Chloroquine (Avloclor) isn’t effective in this region, so it’s best to avoid that one.

Along with medication, make sure to pack insect repellent and use it both during the day and at night. Some mosquitoes that carry other illnesses are active even when the sun’s out.

🐶 A Note About Rabies

Rabies is still a serious concern in Tanzania, causing around 1,500 deaths per year. It’s important to avoid contact with animals, even if a dog or cat seems friendly, it’s safest not to approach, pet, or feed them.

If you do get bitten or scratched, or even licked on broken skin, seek medical help immediately. Rabies is 100% fatal once symptoms appear, but early treatment can prevent that entirely.

🩺 Travel Insurance

Please make sure you have travel insurance that covers emergency medical care. If something unexpected happens, having coverage in place will give you peace of mind and access to the care you need.

✈️ Final Reminders

This isn’t meant to worry you, just to make sure you’re informed and prepared so your trip can go smoothly. Arusha is an amazing place, and with a few basic precautions, we’ll all be able to enjoy it safely.

If you haven’t already, now’s a great time to:

• Book an appointment with your doctor or travel clinic
• Pick up any needed medications or vaccinations
• Make sure your travel insurance is up to date

We can’t wait to welcome you. Safe travels, and see you soon in Arusha!