Travel clinic Samoa
Travel health and vaccine advice for Samoa
Samoa

With rugged mountains dug by isolated valleys, lush jungles hiding majestic waterfalls, idyllic white sand beaches and emerald-blue waters home to coral reefs bustling with life, Samoa has an unparalleled natural beauty. The South Pacific nation is made of volcanic islands which still keep numerous evidences of their origin, from vast black lava fields to spectacular landscapes of verdant ancient craters and impressive blowholes caused by eerie lava tubes. Samoan culture is as intriguing, with a fascinating mythology peopled by gods and spirits. Despite centuries of occupation, Samoan people have always kept their identity and still live following their ancient traditions and beliefs.

HEALTH INFORMATION

Risk of Zika in this Country. Learn More >>

We make every effort to ensure that the information posted on our website is up to date and accurate according to the latest public health recommendations; however, it is impossible for us to make changes on a daily basis.

For the most current travel health recommendations, please call our clinic as make an appointment with one of our travel health professionals.

SAMOA – RECOMMENDED VACCINES

The Yellow Fever Vaccine A proof of vaccination against yellow fever may be required upon entry in to this country. Some travellers may not be eligible to receive this vaccine. Please enquire with your health care professional regarding your specific details. It is important to note that the vaccine should be administered at least 10 days prior to your departure. For further information, please consult with the World Health Organization (WHO) website: https://www.who.int/ith/ith-country-list.pdf
Hepatitis A Recommended for all travelers.
Hepatitis B Recommended for all travelers.
Tetanus – Diphteria – Pertussis Vaccine Tetanus: In exceptional circumstances (eg, stay in a region where access to health care is limited), for a person aged 18 years or older, 1 dose of DT may be given if 5 years or more has elapsed since the last dose. Otherwise, one booster dose at the age of 50*. Pertussis (Whooping Cough):  1 dose is recommended for pregnant women, for every pregnancy, regardless of immunization history and the interval since the last dose (betwen week 26 and 32). *Only applicable for Quebec.
Measles – Rubella – Mumps Two doses recommended for all travelers born after 1970, if not previously given.
Rabies For travelers at high risk of animal bites or being involved in activities with bats. Clients who plan to visit remote areas may consider receiving this vaccine. Important to note the pre-exposure rabies vaccine is administered in 2 doses with one week interval between doses. Post-exposure vaccination is always recommended, even for those previously vaccinated.
Flu – Influenza Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person through coughing and sneezing or by touching infected surfaces. Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine yearly. Vaccine is recommended 14 days prior to departure.
Routine vaccines (dCaT, Polio, Meningococcal, Shingles, Pneumococcal, Hepatitis B, HPV, MMR & Varicella) Recommended for all travelers
Typhoid fever Recommended for most travelers, especially those who are staying with friends or relatives; visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where exposure might occur through food or water; or prone to “adventurous eating”
Dengue Fever, Chikungunya and/or Zika There are many illnesses that are transmitted via mosquito bites and unfortunately we do not have vaccines to protect us against most of them. It is important to inquire with your healthcare professional regarding the specific risks and the different illnesses presently in circulation.

RECOMMENDED MEDICATIONS

Antibiotics Traveler’s Diarrhea Azithromycin or Suprax

MEDICAL CARE

The basic medical care provided by Samoan hospitals is of satisfying quality. But it remains limited when it comes to specialized services. If you need medical assistance while traveling in Samoa, it is advised that you go to the MedCen private hospital, which is located in Apia, the capital city. The public National Hospital, also in Apia, is another option. Small health care centers can be found outside of the capital. In the event of serious health issues, an air evacuation to another country is required.

In case of emergency in Samoa, you can call an ambulance at 996. It is also possible to reach directly the MedCen private hospital at 26 519. 

Pharmaceutical establishments are very few in Samoa. Basic medicines are accessible but specific treatments can be very hard to find. It is thus indispensable that you bring your own well filled medical kit. It is always a good idea to undergo a medical check and make sure your vaccinations are up to date before traveling to Samoa.

SECURITY ABROAD

Petty and violent crime occurs. Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times.

SAN JOSÉ WEATHER
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