Risk / Health Info for Trinidad and Tobago

What shots do I need for Trinidad and Tobago?

Your vaccinations should be up to date before you leave for Trinidad and Tobago. Hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines can protect you against two food- and water-borne illnesses. Follow safe water and food precautions to avoid “travellers’ diarrhea” in Trinidad and Tobago. If you can’t peel it, cook it or boil it, don’t eat it, and choose commercially bottled water for drinking and for ice cubes.

Hepatitis B shots are recommended for children and for people who plan to visit Trinidad and Tobago often or for extended periods. People who work in healthcare or dentistry should also get vaccinated, as hep B is spread by contact with contaminated blood or body fluid. It can be contracted by unprotected sex or dirty needles, including those used for tattooing and piercing, and by invasive cosmetic or medical procedures.

Animals in Trinidad and Tobago may be infected with rabies, so get vaccinated if you expect to visit a remote area or to be around animals, including dogs and bats. Children should also be vaccinated because they are often bitten while playing with animals. Always get urgent medical advice about any bite or scratch in Trinidad and Tobago, even if you have already been vaccinated.

Can I get medical treatment in Trinidad and Tobago?

Although private facilities can be expensive, there are five hospitals throughout Trinidad and Tobago that offer free medical services. Nonetheless your Canadian health insurance does not protect you outside the country so make sure you get travel insurance. Consult your provincial or territorial health authority before you leave for Trinidad and Tobago.

The emergency medical number in Trinidad and Tobago is 990.

How can I protect my health in Trinidad and Tobago?

Zika, dengue fever, chikungunya and yellow fever can be spread by mosquitoes in Trinidad and Tobago. Avoid mosquito-borne illnesses by using a reliable insect repellent, wearing neutral-coloured clothing that covers as much skin as possible, and sleeping in air-conditioned accommodation or under a net where possible.

There is a risk of yellow fever in Trinidad and Tobago, so take along your certificate as proof immunization. The shot protects you for life.

Chikungunya virus in Trinidad and Tobago

Cases of Chikungunya virus have been reported in Trinidad and Tobago. 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 Trinidad and Tobago

There have been cases of the mosquito-borne virus dengue fever in Trinidad and Tobago. 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 Trinidad and Tobago

Global Affairs Canada has issued a warning about the risk of contracting Zika in Trinidad and Tobago. 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 Trinidad and Tobago. 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.