Risk / Health Info for Curacao

Make sure your vaccinations are up to date before your visit to Curaçao. Consider also getting shots to protect you from hepatitis A and B. As elsewhere in the Caribbean, stick to commercially bottled water for drinking and ice cubes, and avoid food that you can’t peel, cook or boil.

Zika, chikungunya and dengue fever have all been reported in Curaçao, so take care to avoid mosquito bites. Wear clothing that covers as much skin as possible, and use a reliable mosquito repellent.

If you travel outside Canada you need travel insurance to make sure you are covered for any medical costs, no matter where you’re going or how long you’ll be there. Before you leave for Curaçao, check with your provincial or territorial health authority for more information.

Chikungunya virus in Curacao

Cases of Chikungunya virus have been reported in Curacao. 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 Curacao

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

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