Risk / Health Info for Bonaire

Your regular shots should be up to date before you travel to Bonaire. You might also want to get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B, too. Reduce the risk of stomach troubles by using commercially bottled water for drinking and ice cubes, and don’t eat anything that you can’t peel, cook or boil.

Mosquito-borne illnesses including chikungunya, Zika and dengue fever are present in Bonaire, so avoid getting bitten by using a reliable insect repellent, choosing clothing that covers your limbs well, and sleeping in air-conditioned accommodation or under a bed net.

Your regular travel insurance will not cover any medical costs when you leave Canada, so before you go to Bonaire, check with your provincial or territorial health authority for more information.

Chikungunya virus in Bonaire

Cases of Chikungunya virus have been reported in Bonaire. 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 Bonaire

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

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