Injuries and medical issues on the Zambezi "Great River"

We report the injuries and medical issues incurred during a rowing expedition conducted along the Zambezi River in May 2011. All injuries and illnesses requiring medical intervention were recorded during a 30-day expedition. There were 22 rowers and 8 support staff sustaining 32 injuries, an injury incidence of 36 per 1000 days. We discuss the medical issues regarding conducting an expedition along the Zambezi and the medical preparation and education required to successfully support wilderness expeditions.