Antigua and Barbuda Health Care and Vaccinations

Health Care

Health insurance is strongly recommended as medical treatment is expensive. There are several GPs on the island as well as one hospital and one private clinic. Recompression chambers are on nearby Saba and St Thomas (travel by air ambulance). Please note that the private health clinic, Adelin does not accept medical travel insurance in payment for treatment, and will require a deposit of US$4,000 by credit card before treatment can be given.

Food and Drink

Mains water is normally chlorinated and, whilst relatively safe, may cause mild abdominal upsets. Bottled water is available and is advised for the first few weeks of the stay. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption so there is no need to be overly cautious. Local meat, poultry, seafood, fruit and vegetables are generally considered safe to eat.

Other Risks

Dengue fever may occur. Normal precautions against mosquito bites should be taken and visitors should drink plenty of water to mitigate any risk of heat stroke due to high temperatures. There is a high prevalence of HIV/AIDS in the Caribbean so appropriate precautions should be taken. Tuberculosis and hepatitis B vaccinations are sometimes recommended.