Risk / Health Info for Saint Kitts And Nevis

Make sure your shots are up to date for Saint Kitts and Nevis before you go. Talk with a healthcare adviser at Canadian Travel Clinics about getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and B, as well. Avoid getting mosquito bites so you reduce the risk of getting Zika, chikungunya and dengue fever.

Reduce the risk of “travellers’ diarrhea” by sticking to food you can peel or that has been cooked or boiled. Limited medical facilities are available on the islands, but evacuation is needed for complex cases. Make sure you have travel insurance and sufficient funds to cover the cost of medical treatment and evacuation before you leave for the Saint Kitts and Nevis. Consult your provincial or territorial health authority for more information.

Chikungunya virus in Saint Kitts And Nevis

Cases of Chikungunya virus have been reported in Saint Kitts And Nevis. 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 Saint Kitts And Nevis

There have been cases of the mosquito-borne virus dengue fever in Saint Kitts And Nevis. 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 Saint Kitts And Nevis

Global Affairs Canada has issued a warning about the risk of contracting Zika in Saint Kitts And Nevis. 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 Saint Kitts And Nevis. 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.