Like much of the continent, South Africa is facing a rapidly spreading HIV/AIDS health epidemic. The U.S. Department of State reports that "According to the South African Department of Health, about 5.54 million people were estimated to be living with HIV in South Africa in 2005, with 18.8% of the adult population (15-49) affected." While it is easy to become caught up in the moment while dancing and flirting with strangers, the U.S. Department of State strongly recommends that visitors to the region "...exercise appropriate precautions if engaging in sexual activity."
Unfortunately, crime is prevalent across South Africa, especially in the larger cities such as Johannesburg or Cape Town. Criminals will often target two types of people: those "appearing to be affluent, including those...wearing eye-catching jewelry and/or flashing large amounts of cash" or those "who appear preoccupied and do not pay attention to their immediate surroundings." These crimes can range from assault to armed robbery to carjacking. Because of the late night hours and the chance of visitors becoming intoxicated, night clubs should be visited with caution. It is always better to stay in groups. Arrange reliable transporation, and don't wander the streets aimlessly. Seek out local advice about the areas of town to avoid. Be careful not to wear anything obviously valuable.
According to the U.S. Department of State, "South Africa...has the highest incidence of reported rape in the world." Although tourists are not targeted any more than locals, it is a very real threat of which all visitors, especially women, should be aware. Of course, because of the high incidence of HIV/AIDS in the country, any rape victims should "seek immediate medical attention, including antiretroviral therapy against HIV/AIDS."
Like any foreign country, South Africa has its own particular diseases that tourists may not typically be exposed to, such as malaria and tuberculosis (TB). While malaria risk is limited to rural, low altitude areas of the country, tuberculosis is a growing health concern in South Africa. Although TB generally requires "a relatively long time in a closed environment where the air was contaminated by a person with untreated TB," nightclubs are usually crowded and enclosed spaces, which allows for easier transmission of germs. Any visitors to Africa should consult with a doctor prior to the trip to learn which vaccines should be administered.
