A bad sunburn is the worst thing that’s likely to happen to you while you’re on holiday in Vanuatu. However, it’s also possible to get sick. This is something you can easily avoid by taking the right health precautions before and during your trip – no one wants to have more vivid memories of the toilet bowl than the beach!
Vaccinations
There are no specific vaccinations required for travel to Vanuatu. However, we still recommend discussing vaccinations and risks with your doctor before you go.
You should also be up-to-date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella and diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis. It is possible to get typhoid in Vanuatu through contaminated food or water and it’s a good idea to ask for this vaccination as well – especially if you’re an adventurous eater.
Medications
Although malaria is not a health concern, if you plan on spending most of your time around Port Vila or in your resort, anti-malarial precautions are recommended for visits to the outer islands. To reduce the risk of malaria, you should also take measures to avoid mosquito bites by wearing long-sleeved tops and pants, using insect repellent, and sleeping in air-conditioned accommodation or rooms with mosquito netting. To decide whether or not you will need anti-malarial medications, it’s best to speak to a travel health specialist.
Be sure to pack any prescription medications you need during your holiday, as it may be difficult to get them on the islands, especially outside of the larger towns. Small clinics and dispensaries with limited resources can be found throughout the outer islands.
We recommend packing a small first-aid kit with basic painkillers and treatments for cuts and insect bites. Coral cuts are a common injury for tourists and they can become infected easily, so antiseptic creams and plasters are a must.