Risk / Health Info for Palau

There are some recommended vaccinations for Palau and Canadian Travel Clinics can help you arrange these.

Medical facilities are very limited throughout Palau. The one hospital, which is in Koror, has a hyperbaric chamber with a certified operator. Serious medical conditions may require evacuation.

Mosquito-borne illnesses including Zika are present in Palau so avoid getting bitten by covering up as much as possible and using a reliable insect repellent. Women who may be pregnant or might be considering getting pregnant should avoid travelling to Palau.

Practise safe food and water precautions: stick to commercially bottled water, including in your ice cubes, and to foods that you can peel yourself or are cooked or boiled.

Your Canadian health insurance will not cover you when you leave the country, so get travel insurance before you go. Consult your provincial or territorial health authority for more information.

Dengue fever in Palau

There have been cases of the mosquito-borne virus dengue fever in Palau. Dengue fever is also known as breakbone fever because of the severe bone, joint and muscular pains it causes, in addition to flu-like fever and headache. There is no vaccine for dengue fever. Avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellents (50% DEET) and by wearing protective clothing. Sleeping with mosquito nets is also recommended.

Zika in Palau

Global Affairs Canada has issued a warning about the risk of contracting Zika in Palau. Zika is a viral disease spread by mosquitoes, and infection during pregnancy has been linked to birth defects. Women who are pregnant or planning to get pregnant should take advice before travelling to Palau. Zika symptoms include rash, itch, mild fever, headache, red eyes, muscle and joint pains. Avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellents (50% DEET) and by wearing protective clothing. Mosquito nets and air conditioning should be used when sleeping.