I'm going on holiday and I'm worried about the vaccinations having side effects. Is it safe with my anxiety?

Talk to your doctor about your concerns. I'm sure she/he can tell you whether any side effects will affect your anxiety and address your mozzie issues.

Most vaccinations are derived from dead or modified viruses or bacteria. After the vaccination the body reacts by building up specific antibodies or anti toxins against the specific disease. Examples of diseases that can be prevented by this process include pneumonia, cholera, dysentery, plague, smallpox, diphtheria, tetanus, tuberculosis, and yellow fever (this one is the one carried by your over friendly mosquitoes). By getting these shots you can develop immunity to specific disease but sometimes it is recommended that you get shots updated after long periods just as a precaution or if there is an outbreak in the area you are going to. Sometimes you get permanent protection from the disease . The only reaction you might get is a slight fever or inflammation at the site of the vaccination but remember most are using dead agents. It's a lot better to get immunized before you go than to take the chance of getting bitten by the mosquitoes since you really can't be safe to go without that protection.If you need to take medication to prevent a disease like malaria, ask the nurse or doctor what the side effects might be & how to cut down any reaction that might occur.The vaccines and drugs are to kill any diseases you might be exposed to, but think of these things as your protectors. Years ago going to Africa was very dangerous because of the possibility of dying from a wild lion or charging elephant (that's why they carried huge "elephant guns" for protection).I If the wild animals didn't get you, the tiny mosquitoes would lie in wait until sundown then ambush you. Maybe just think of the vaccinations (& drugs) as your "elephant guns" to protect you as you enjoy all the sights of Africa. See, you don't even have to lug anything around with you like the "elephant guns" for you have built in protection. Go and enjoy.

I have had the same vaccinations and taken malaria tablets and they are designed to keep you safe, side effects only happen in extreme cases and are still preferable to what they prevent such as malaria and dengue fever (trust me you do not want them) Always take the malaria tablets on a full stomach or they will make you feel queasy and you may stop taking them. They make the Mozzies harmless. When you go to see the nurse they will be happy to talk to you about any aspect of the process and will answer anyndoubts you have to putnyour mind at ease. Don't let nerves spoil the trip of a lifetime Africa is amazing and you will be glad of your experience