Risk / Health Info for French Polynesia

If travelling to French Polynesia, recommended shots include hepatitis and typhoid.

Take precautions against mosquito bites, as mosquito-borne diseases are becoming more common throughout French Polynesia.

Medical facilities are good on the main islands, but limited elsewhere. Serious injuries and illnesses are evacuated to Tahiti.

You will also need travel insurance to make sure you are covered for any medical costs, so check with your provincial or territorial health authority for more information.

Altitude in French Polynesia

Parts of French Polynesia are higher than 2,400m, and travellers planning to spend time at a high altitude should take steps to protect themselves against the potentially life-threatening acute mountain sickness. Your healthcare provider can help with this.

Dengue fever in French Polynesia

There have been cases of the mosquito-borne virus dengue fever in French Polynesia. 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.

Chikungunya virus in French Polynesia

Cases of Chikungunya virus have been reported in French Polynesia. It is spread by day-biting mosquitoes and you can guard against infection by covering up and using mosquito repellents. Infection results in joint pains, fever, rash and headache. It clears up after a few days, but some patients are left with swollen and painful joints for weeks or even years afterwards.