Risk / Health Info for The Seychelles

Do I need shots for The Seychelles?

You will need a few vaccines for The Seychelles. Your healthcare adviser at Canadian Travel Clinics can help you make sure your regular shots are up to date before you go to The Seychelles. You should also consider vaccinations to prevent hepatitis A and typhoid, to avoid these gastrointestinal illnesses caused by contaminated food and water. Avoid other causes of “travellers’ diarrhea” by making sure you drink commercially bottled water in The Seychelles, and by sticking to foods you can peel or that have been cooked or boiled. Wash your hands frequently.

Should I get a hepatitis B shot?

Travellers who plan to visit The Seychelles often or stay an extended period should get the hepatitis B shot. Spread by contact with blood or body fluids, hep B is also a risk for people who work in healthcare or dentistry in The Seychelles, or for anyone who comes in contact with unsterilized needles or engages in unprotected sex. Children are also at risk of hepatitis B through cuts and scrapes.

What healthcare facilities are there in The Seychelles?

There are healthcare facilities in The Seychelles, but access on remote islands may be limited. If you travel outside Canada you need travel insurance to make sure you are covered for any medical costs, no matter where you're going or how long you'll be there. Before you leave the country, check with your provincial or territorial health authority for more information.

The emergency number in The Seychelles is 999.

How can I stay safe in The Seychelles?

You should bring your own sun screens and insect repellents to The Seychelles as they can be expensive to buy. Insect repellent is particularly important as there are a few mosquito-borne illnesses you can catch in The Seychelles, including dengue fever and malaria. Further protect yourself by covering up as much as possible. Ensure you sleep under nets, too.

Dengue fever in The Seychelles

There have been cases of the mosquito-borne virus dengue fever in The Seychelles. Dengue fever is also known as breakbone fever because of the severe bone, joint and muscular pains it causes, in addition to flu-like fever and headache. There is no vaccine for dengue fever. Avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellents (50% DEET) and by wearing protective clothing. Sleeping with mosquito nets is also recommended.

Malaria in The Seychelles

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of The Seychelles at certain times of year. There is no malaria vaccine, but there are anti-malaria drugs that should be taken before, during and after travelling to certain at-risk countries. Speak with your healthcare provider six weeks before your trip, as not all prophylaxis regimes are appropriate for all regions and all individuals.