The island of Saint Lucia, located in the Lesser Antilles, has something to offer to everyone. You are looking for lazy sunny holidays? Saint Lucia has numerous paradise beaches and hidden sandy creeks. You wish to escape in the nature? Walk through old plantations, explore untouched wild forests and climb the majestic volcanoes shaping the island. You have a passion for culture and history? Immerse yourself in the double colonial heritage of Saint Lucia, alternately ruled by French and British. It is time to enjoy and party? Experience the vibrant nightlife of the island and dance to the lively rhythm of traditional Caribbean music all night long…
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.
SAINT LUCIA – 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. |
| 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” |
| 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). |
| African Tick Bite Fever | Could be present. All travellers should protect themselves against tick bites. |
| Schistosomiasis | Avoid swimming in fresh water. |
| 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
The health care system in Saint Lucia is not of satisfying quality. Two government run hospital centers are found on the island : the Victoria Hospital and the Soufriere Hospital. Note that there is a travel clinic located in Vieux Fort. In the event of serious sickness or injury, an air evacuation to another country is necessary.
In case of emergency in Saint Lucia, call 911. You can also directly reach the Victoria Hospital at 758 452 2421 and the Soufriere Hospital at 758 459 7258.
A few well supplied and quality pharmacies are found in Saint Lucia. It is also possible to access medicines in some hospitals, which sometimes have their own pharmaceutical service. But don’t forget to bring your own medical kit, especially if you require specific treatments, when traveling to Saint Lucia.
SECURITY ABROAD
CANADIAN EMBASSY
Emergency services
In case of emergency, dial:
- police: 911
- medical assistance: 911
- firefighters: 911
