Risk / Health Info for Jamaica

Do I need vaccines for Jamaica?

For a trip to Jamaica recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A and typhoid, which will protect you against two food- and water-borne illnesses that can cause unpleasant GI symptoms.

Some travellers will want to consider a hepatitis B vaccine. These groups include children and frequent and long-stay travellers. If you are going to Jamaica as a healthcare worker (including dentistry) or to work in a lab that handles bodily fluids, ask about a vaccine for hep B. Other infection routes include:

• recreational intravenous drug use
• unprotected sex
• invasive medical or cosmetic procedures such as tattooing or piercing.

Can I get medical care in Jamaica?

Medical facilities may not be up to North American standards and treatment may be expensive in Jamaica. You may have to pay for your care straight away and in cash. Ensure that you have access to emergency cash; and ensure that your travel health insurance is up to date.

Protect your health in Jamaica

There have been reports of several mosquito-borne illnesses in Jamaica, including zika, dengue fever and Chikungunya virus, so avoid bites wherever possible. You can protect yourself with clothing that has long legs and sleeves and a reliable insect repellent. Air-conditioned sleeping rooms and mosquito nets will also reduce your risk. Ask your travel advisor about the vaccines or prophylactics that are available to reduce your chances of getting infected by a rogue mosquito.

Chikungunya virus in Jamaica

Cases of Chikungunya virus have been reported in Jamaica. 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 Jamaica

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

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