Risk / Health Info for Maldives

What vaccinations do I need for Maldives?

If you are travelling to Maldives, vaccines are recommended. These include hepatitis A, which is contracted through person-to-person contact. Hepatitis A may also be water- or food-borne.

Typhoid is another shot that travellers to the Maldives can get. Typhoid is an infection caused by salmonella bacteria and is acquired through drinking unsafe water.

Some groups of travellers should consider a hepatitis B vaccine. These include children, frequent and long-stay travellers as well as those who will be working in a healthcare setting. Hep B is also contracted through recreational intravenous drug use and unprotected sex.

Do I need a yellow fever certificate for Maldives?

If you have come from a county with a risk of yellow fever transmission, you will need a yellow fever certificate. Tell your travel health advisor about your plans and they will help you decide whether you will need a yellow fever vaccination and certificate for your visit to Maldives. The vaccination will provide you with lifelong protection against yellow fever, and your certificate is proof of immunity.

Can I get medical treatment in Maldives?

There are just two hospitals in the Maldives, both on Malé. Many resorts are several hours away from a hospital, and if you need a decompression chamber because of a diving incident, you may find yourself over an hour away from one. The emergency number is 102. You should ensure you have enough funds to pay for any treatment and for repatriation if necessary.

Protect your health in Maldives

It is possible to contract several mosquito-borne illnesses in Maldives, including dengue fever and zika, so it is a very good idea to avoid bites wherever possible. You should wear clothing with good limb coverage and use a reliable insect repellent. Sleep under nets wherever possible.

Dengue fever in Maldives

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

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