Once we had all arrived at St Bees and at Karen Greene's house. We were quickly assembled into several groups that would cover certain topics that covered a broad amount of subjects. We were given a lengthy period of time to write on a A1 piece of paper as much as we know about a possible issue in Tanzania, so for instance, with Malaria something that a group noted was that early symptoms were feverish kind of feelings. We also had to write any questions we may have had about a particular topic so they could be answered later by Karen. Soon after we started, we were slowed to a crawl as chocolate cake and drinks were brought through as a treat for us all. Which was nice.
Once we had finished our chocolate cake but more importantly the sheets, they were clipped to the flip chart and talked through. We discussed monkeys and dogs how they could give us infections and rabies as well as other conditions like hepatitis. As well as insects and other animals such as snakes. The obvious answer to these dilemmas were things like no holes in mozzie nets, wear long sleeve clothing at dawn and dusk. As well as taking medication and the obvious stuff. Also apparently, (not sure if this works) but the solution to a snake attack (and I quote) 'If you see a snake. Do not let it bite you'.
Other Issues such as sunstroke was discussed too. We went into sun burn and sun stroke, and found that symptoms of sun stroke could be; headache, light headedness, dehydration, and even in severe cases unconsciousness. Solution? Sun cream, get shade if needed, water. Genius.
We also went into detail about 'Food Hygiene'. We found that being bunged up can affect the visit to Tanzania, caused by dodgy food, or cooking facilities, so we were advised to clean regularly, and always be sure when dealing with foods. Drink too was on the agenda. (Water, don't get exited). We were given logical advise, of to always check the water, and that if a Tanzanian was to offer water then to turn it down due to our immune system being rubbish. As well as making sure it's sterile etc. etc...
Other than this we talked about Allergies, first aid amongst other things. About how to stab me with an epi-pen and what not. But I'll be showing you all at packing night with one anyway so that's all fine. Regards to the first aid we were all on a course a while ago, so we 'should' be covered for that, just don't panic in a situations, the obvious.
Other than this, as we were all about to set off to go watch the not-so-mighty England, before we started talking about malaria tablets and what not. LARIUM TAKERS SHOULD HAVE STARTED BY NOW! So with Karen's son waiting eagerly in the kitchen for the game, we set off home. Missing the first goal by Big ol' Andy Carroll.
The End....
Beggers
