Basic Healthcare Info
Barbados offers a high level of health care via the national hospital the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH), polyclinics and private facilities. Please note that medical treatment can be expensive, private clinics may not accept medical travel insurance as payment, it is best to ask. While the island boasts a robust healthcare system, it is advisable to take similar precautions when traveling to other parts of the world. Here are a few tips:
Make sure your vaccinations are up to date. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends the following immunizations for Barbados:
- Typhoid, hepatitis A
- Polio
- Yellow fever
- Chikungunya
- Rabies
- Hepatitis B
- Influenza
- COVID-19
- Pneumonia
- Meningitis
- Chickenpox
- Shingles
- Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis)
- Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR)
Barbados' water supply is safe to drink from the tap. Bottled water is readily available across the island, keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water (or other fluids) to prevent dehydration.
Barbados has high food hygiene standards in restaurants and on the streets.
Prevent bug bites, mosquitoes and sand flies are common in Barbados, keep insect repellent nearby and apply regularly, eucalyptus and citronella are known to work as well.
Stay safe outdoors, wear sunscreen and a hat when out in the sun.
Keep away from animals, rabies among the dog population is rare, however be cautious when approaching and touching animals.
Reduce your exposure to germs, as you would at home wash your hands regularly and use sanitizer and wipes to keep hands clean.
Avoid sharing body fluids, use masks, gloves, and protective clothing when in contact with bodily fluids other than your own. When engaging in sexual activity use barrier methods, such as a condom or dental dam to reduce contact with semen, saliva, blood, and ejaculate. This reduces the risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or pregnancy.