Nasty, Yucky, Mean, & Overall Painful Vaccines!

Well today was the day that I had to face my fears and go to the doctor.  I am not good with shots.... to be honest I usually do very bad.  I have been known to pass out, have had two seizures, thrown up everywhere, etc.  So saying I "don't like shots" is like the understatement of the year.  I was so nervous that I honestly began second guessing this entire trip while waiting for the nurse to come in with the vaccines.

It took awhile to find a doctor that is allowed to give the Yellow Fever Vaccine AND is in my network.  I ended up having to travel to St. Louis.  I was so upset that we didn't get to drive by the arch.... that is my favorite part of the city!  Anyway, my travel doctor went through all of the "stuff" about Rwanda.  I honestly wonder if anyone goes in and is stunned when they are told that info?  I mean when you commit to going to a place like Rwanda (or Africa in general), it's advisable to have examined all of that info prior to three weeks before leaving.  For example, I know there is a malaria threat.... and I also understand that I have to be bit by a mosquito in order to get it.  Turns out I needed more stuff than I had planned for though.... I got the medicine for malaria as well as a preventative set of pills for typhoid.  The he said I needed three shots.  Obviously the Yellow Fever, but also Hep A and a booster for Polio.  He said the polio booster really wasn't as important since I had a vaccine already and it should last a lifetime.  I was at a high risk for Hep A though because of the developmental status of the country so he highly suggested that and Yellow Fever. 

I think the funniest part about the day though is when the doctor kept explaining how I could die.  Me: "What if I don't get the Hep A vaccine?"  Him: "Well you will get really sick...and die."  Me: "...and what happens regarding rabies if you get scratched/bit?"  Him: "The infected spot will begin to get numb.... and then you're dead.  Don't touch animals."  hahahaha I know it is serious and true but I think it was just the way it was said/presented.  At least it gave me a good laugh!

I got through the Yellow Fever ok until I sat up.  I got tunnel vision and then it went black.  Luckily I had enough sense to immediately lay down and didn't actually pass out.  I almost left without the Hep A.  Finally I said I'd wait and get it; I am now officially vaccinated against Yellow Fever AND Hep A.  YAAAAAY! No booster for me though.  Below is part of the Yellow Fever cert that I have to keep with my passport at all times.  Ironic that it is printed on yellow paper....  

 Luckily for me I had a wonderful escort to and from St. Louis so that I could sleep the entire way home!  Thanks Andy :)