Vaccinations
| Special Precautions | |
|---|---|
| Diphtheria | Sometimes |
| Hepatitis A | Yes |
| Malaria | No |
| Rabies | No |
| Tetanus | Yes |
| Typhoid | Sometimes |
| Yellow Fever | No* |
|
Inoculation regulations can change at short notice. Please take medical advice in the case of doubt. Where 'Sometimes' appears in the table above, precautions may be
required, depending on the season and region visited.
|
* A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers over one year of age travelling from an infected area.
Food and Drink
The water in Barbados is considered by some to be the purest in the world; it is filtered naturally by limestone and coral and pumped from underground rivers. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption.
Other Risks
Immunisation against hepatitis B may be recommended for long-term travellers. A low risk of dengue fever exists. Hay fever and asthma can be exacerbated during the sugar cane harvesting season. It is also important to note that there is 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.
Health Care
Excellent medical facilities are available in Barbados, with both private and general wards. Barbados has a reciprocal health agreement with the UK, which entitles UK nationals to free hospital and polyclinic treatment, ambulance travel and prescribed medicines for children and elderly patients. However, prescribed medicines for those other than children or the elderly and all dental treatment must be paid for. 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.