Risk / Health Info for Bahamas

What shots should I get for the Bahamas?

Your vaccinations should be up to date before you leave for the Bahamas. Gastrointestinal illnesses caused by hepatitis A or typhoid that can be picked up from food or water, and you can reduce that risk by getting a shot. And as always in the Caribbean, don’t eat it if you can’t peel it, boil it or cook it. Organisms that cause “travellers’ diarrhea” may be ingested in contaminated food and water.

Some travellers should also consider a hepatitis B shot: children, frequent visitors and people planning to stay for long periods, people who work in a healthcare setting, including dentistry. Hep B is also spread through intravenous drugs and unprotected sex, or by invasive medical or cosmetic procedures. To protect yourself during your time in the Bahamas, ask your adviser about a vaccine.

Can I get healthcare in the Bahamas?

There are good medical facilities in Nassau and Freeport, but healthcare can be expensive. Emergencies may require evacuation to Nassau, Freeport or Miami. Make sure you have travel insurance and sufficient funds to cover the cost of medical treatment and evacuation before you leave for the Bahamas. Consult your provincial or territorial health authority for more information.

The emergency number in the Bahamas is 911.

Protect your health in the Bahamas

Several mosquito-borne illnesses are prevalent in the Bahamas, including Zika, dengue fever and chikungunya, so avoid getting bitten. Choose clothing with that covers your arms and legs and neck well, and always use a reliable insect repellent. Stay in accommodations with air conditioning or screened windows, or sleep under bed nets where possible.

Chikungunya virus in Bahamas

Cases of Chikungunya virus have been reported in Bahamas. It is spread by day-biting mosquitoes and you can guard against infection by covering up and using mosquito repellents. Infection results in joint pains, fever, rash and headache. It clears up after a few days, but some patients are left with swollen and painful joints for weeks or even years afterwards.

Dengue fever in Bahamas

There have been cases of the mosquito-borne virus dengue fever in Bahamas. 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 Bahamas

Global Affairs Canada has issued a warning about the risk of contracting Zika in Bahamas. 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 Bahamas. 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.