Travel Vaccinations & Travel Advice For Jamaica
Jamaica has been on the top of the list of travel agencies for a long time, and for good reasons. The paradise Caribbean island really has the powdery sand beaches, the crystal clear waters and the magical sunsets displayed in tourist brochures. But the visitor who doesn’t look further than his luxury resort misses what the sublime Jamaica is all about. The genuine soul of Jamaica lies in its African-like culture so dear to its population, heritage from a tragic past of colonization and slavery. And in its omnipresent music… Birthplace of Reggae, Jamaica blessed the world with the inestimable Bob Marley and many other talented artists.
What vaccines do I need for Jamaica In 2024
The Government of Canada and the CDC recommend the following vaccines for travelling to Jamaica In 2024: Traveler’s Diarrhea, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Rabies, Flu, COVID-19, Typhoid fever.
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.
JAMAICA – 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. For further information, please consult with the World Health Organization (WHO) website: |
| Hepatitis A | 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. |
| Transmission, Symptoms and Prevention – 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 |
| Causes, Symptoms & Treatment – 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” |
| Hepatitis B | Consider for most travelers; recommended for those who might be exposed to blood or other body fluids, have sexual contact with the local population, or be exposed through medical treatment (e.g., for an accident). |
| Turista – Traveler’s Diarrhea (ETEC) | Talk to your health care professional about the risks and precautionary measures to take, as well as the Dukoral® vaccine. Important to note that the Dukoral vaccine is an oral vaccine given in 2 doses, recommended at least 2 weeks prior to departure. |
| 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 | Ciprofloxacin, Azithromycin or Suprax. |
MEDICAL CARE
Access to medical care is extremely limited outside of Kingston and Montego Bay. If you require medical assistance in Jamaica, go to the University Hospital of the West Indies, located in Kingston, a private hospital center financially supported by the government, where the medical care is of satisfying quality. The Medical Associates Hospital is another good option, also located in the capital.
Be aware that outside of Kingston and Montego Bay, access to an ambulance is extremely limited.
You will find numerous well stocked pharmacies in major cities. The Moodies Pharmacy, the Oxford Medical Centre Pharmacy, the Monarch Pharmacy or the Liguanea Lane Pharmacy are quality pharmaceutical establishments in Kingston. It is recommended that you bring your own prescription medication and other useful over-the-counter medication.
SECURITY ABROAD
Violent crime, including armed robbery and murder, is a problem in large cities despite the presence of police to counter criminal activity. The availability of firearms is widespread, and most violent drug- and gang-related crimes, especially murder, involve firearms. There is a risk of …
CANADIAN EMBASSY
Emergency services
- police: 119
- medical assistance: 911
- firefighters: 911
Jamaica Tourist Board offices are located throughout the island. They have direct radio links with local police and information on safe public beaches.
- Jamaica Tourist Board
