Risk / Health Info for Saint Lucia

What vaccinations should I get for Saint Lucia?

There are some recommended injections for Saint Lucia and Global Travel Clinics can help you arrange these. Hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines will help you to avoid a pair of nasty GI illnesses.

Some travellers should consider a hepatitis B vaccine. The groups who are at most risk of picking up this viral infection include:

• children
• frequent travellers
• long-stay travellers
• those who will be working in a healthcare setting, including dentistry or in a lab that handles body fluids.

Hep B is also contracted through recreational intravenous drug use and unprotected sex. Another infection route is invasive medical or cosmetic procedures.

Are there hospitals in Saint Lucia?

There is a government hospital on the island that can provide care for most eventualities. There are private facilities, but you should check their payment policies before attending as some will not deal with insurers. Medical treatment in Saint Lucia can be expensive and serious cases require emergency evacuation. Travel insurance is a must if you are going to Saint Lucia.

The emergency number in Saint Lucia is 911.

Protect your health in Saint Lucia

It is possible to catch several mosquito-borne illnesses in Saint Lucia so it is a very good idea to avoid bites wherever possible. To avoid being bitten by mosquitos on Saint Lucia:

• opt for loose neutral-coloured clothing with good limb coverage
• treat clothing and your body with a reliable insect repellent
• sleep in an air-conditioned space or under nets.

For more mosquito avoidance advice, speak with your travel advisor or check NHS Fit for Travel.

Chikungunya virus in Saint Lucia

Cases of Chikungunya virus have been reported in Saint Lucia. 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 Lucia

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

Schistosomiasis in Saint Lucia

The schistosomiasis parasite enters humans through the skin during contact with fresh water. To prevent infection, avoid swimming or paddling in lakes and streams in Saint Lucia. This condition is also known as bilharzia.

Zika in Saint Lucia

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