Risk / Health Info for Saint Vincent And The Grenadines

Do I need shots for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines?

Your shots should be up to date before you go to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Canadian Travel Clinics can advise you on what other recommended vaccinations you can consider, including hepatitis A and typhoid, which are both spread by food and water.

You might also consider a hepatitis B shot before you visit Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Children, frequent and long-stay travellers, and people who plan to work in a healthcare or dentistry setting should also get protected against hep B. It is spread by contact with infected blood or body fluid, so can also be contracted through shared needles and unprotected sex, as well as invasive medical or cosmetic procedures.

What are the hospital facilities like in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines?

The main government hospital in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines can be expensive but offers a wide range of treatments. You will need travel insurance to make sure you are covered for any medical costs, no matter how long you’ll be there. Before you leave Canada, check with your provincial or territorial health authority for more information.

The emergency number in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is 911.

Protect your health in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Protect yourself against mosquito-borne illnesses in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines such as Zika, dengue fever and chikungunya. Avoid mosquito bites by choosing neutral-coloured clothing with long sleeves and legs, and using a reliable insect repellent. Sleep in air-conditioned accommodation or under nets wherever possible.

Reduce the risk of “travellers’ diarrhea” and other food- and water-borne illnesses by using commercially bottled water for drinking and ice cubes, and only eating food you can peel or that has been boiled or cooked.

Chikungunya virus in Saint Vincent And The Grenadines

Cases of Chikungunya virus have been reported in Saint Vincent And The Grenadines. 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 Vincent And The Grenadines

There have been cases of the mosquito-borne virus dengue fever in Saint Vincent And The Grenadines. 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 Vincent And The Grenadines

Global Affairs Canada has issued a warning about the risk of contracting Zika in Saint Vincent And The Grenadines. 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 Vincent And The Grenadines. 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.