Needles!

I really don't care for needles at all - but apparently it is time to just get over that! I started the process of immunizations in prep for the trip. My friend Marjorie called me with urgency last week insisting I get started to ensure that I would have time to fully complete the full set of shots before I go. I made an appointment with Wake County Health Department (Clinic E if you're interested!) and went down there last week. The last time I went to a county health department I think was during an outbreak of Rubella in the early 70's - and I only recall lines that wrapped around the block - so my expectations were very low for the level of service and conditions. I was pleasantly surprised! I was called for my appointment within about 10 minutes of the scheduled time and brought back to a very nice office. The doctor (possibly nurse practitioner - but I don't recall) - spend a great deal of time going over the various recommendations. We discussed the malaria belt, the possibility of rabies, and other such fascinating topics. Ultimately we landed on starting with 5 shots: DPT booster, Tetanus Booster, MMR booster, Hepatitis A/B (all in one), and Polio. I also got a prescription for a Typhoid pill, information on the choices for malaria pills, and 28 days to consider if I wanted a rabies shot. The doctor suggested that if i got bit by an animal from a 'safari' - then I probably would have alot more to worry about than rabies - but I'm still thinking about it. The hepatitis shots were the most critical - as there are to be 3 of them - and it was important I get this all done in advance of leaving. Overall - I was very impressed with the quality of service. Thumbs up for Wake County Health!

As for other medical concerns - it was also suggested I get caught up on most other medical items - so I have a physical in a few days, and I also went to the dentist. You know you're in trouble when you are given a written estimate for your upcoming dental work - but I'm glad I went - as I am sure I will much prefer getting crowns in North Carolina - than having emergency dental work done in Tanzania. So - over the next month I will get all that taken care of and have clean and shiny new teeth and crowns for my trip.

Have another call with my new team tomorrow morning - am looking forward to getting to know them all over the next 2 months before we go. That's all for now.