Dr Nyasha Murphree (who has been based at National Parks stations in Zimbabwe for many years) has issued some sound advice for safari operators and visitors to remote areas about being prepared in case of medical emergencies.  A recent heart-attack case at Nyamepi Camp in Mana Pools prompted her to urge all operators to make sure they have a well-equipped medical kit that includes Ringer's Lactate drips, with long giving sets and canulas; trauma and pressure bandages; antiseptic solutions (Betadine); and an allergy emergency pack which includes adrenalin. This will assist her if she is called upon to help in an emergency. 

She also urges everyone to ensure that they have medical emergency evacuation insurance cover.  She advises:

" Please make sure that operators, staff, guides, and all clients (even Zimbabweans), are registered with MARS (Zimbabwe's Medical Air Rescue Service) for the specific dates that they will be in the valley.  It is not sufficient to be "covered for evacuation" by an insurance carrier, i.e. BUPA, Global Health - even MARS International.  You must have the insurance carrier write a letter of guarantee to MARS  (evacuation), and then you must register and have the guarantee pre-cleared by MARS before travelling to the Valley.  MARS will not send an aircraft until they have payment guarantee from the insurance carrier - and this can take several hours to get if the phones are not working!

MARS registration numbers, together with ID numbers and/or passport numbers should accompany each person at all times, and especially when on game drives, walks, or on the River.  Valuable time is lost trying to find information to give to MARS so that they can confirm eligibility, to fly in and collect a patient."

Visitors should check that their operator has MARS coverage and can organise the correct paperwork for you, or contact MARS direct.  Details on this link:  Medical Air Rescue Services