Barbados Health Care and Vaccinations

Title 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. Prescribed medicines are provided cost-free for children and elderly patients. All dental treatment bears a cost. Medical insurance is recommended for all 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.

Visa and passport information is updated regularly and is correct at the time of publishing. You should verify critical travel information independently with the relevant embassy before you travel.