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Barbados health care and vaccinations

Vaccination identifier Special precautions
Diphtheria

Sometimes
Hepatitis A

Yes
Malaria

No
Rabies

No
Tetanus

Yes
Typhoid

Sometimes
Yellow Fever

No*

* A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers over one year of age travelling from an infected area.

Both private and state-run medical facilities in Barbados are excellent. A reciprocal health agreement with the UK entitles UK nationals to free hospital and polyclinic treatment, ambulance travel. Prescribed medicines are provided cost-free for children and elderly patients. All dental treatment bears a cost. To receive treatment, UK nationals must show their UK passport or NHS medical card, as well as their temporary entry permit. Medical insurance is recommended for all other nationals.

Food and drink: 

Barbados's water is said to rank amongst the purest in the world; it is filtered naturally by limestone and coral and pumped from underground streams. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption.

Other risks: 

Long-term travellers may be advised to immunise against hepatitis B. A low risk of dengue fever exists. Hay fever and asthma can be exacerbated during the sugar cane harvesting season. Barbados has a high prevalence of HIV/AIDS, particularly amongst the 20 to 45 age group, of which it is the second-biggest killer. All necessary precautions should be undertaken.

Recommended Sites:

Protect yourself from malaria
Before you travel, find out if your holiday destination is in a malaria zone.
(An educational initiative organised and funded by GlaxoSmithKline Travel Health. UK/MARK/0173/10 September 2010)
Travel insurance
For residents of over 150 countries. High levels of medical, evacuation, emergency & most adventure activities covered.