St Lucia Health Care and Vaccinations
| Title | Special precautions |
|---|---|
| Yellow Fever | No** |
| Typhoid | Sometimes |
| Tetanus | Yes* |
| Rabies | No |
| Malaria | No |
| Hepatitis A | Yes |
| Diphtheria | Sometimes |
*A booster vaccination is recommended every ten years. ** A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers over one year of age arriving from an infected area.
Health Care
Costs of health care are high and payment in cash is usually expected, irrespective of whether you have health insurance. Victoria hospital in Castries is the main hospital but serious cases will require transfer to a country with greater medical facilities. Full health insurance is essential.
Food and Drink
Mains water is normally chlorinated, and whilst relatively safe, may cause mild abdominal upsets. Bottled water is available. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption. Local meat, poultry, seafood, fruit and vegetables are generally considered safe to eat but take care to ensure that all foods are properly prepared and cooked. Barracuda should not be eaten due to risk of ciguatera poisioning.
Other Risks
Vaccinations against tuberculosis and hepatitis B are sometimes recommended.
