Risk / Health Info for Solomon Islands

If you are wondering about shots to go to the Solomon Islands, then your healthcare adviser at Canadian Travel Clinics can help you. Travellers should take special precautions to avoid the Zika virus, and women who may be pregnant or might be considering getting pregnant should avoid travelling to the Solomon Islands. There is currently an outbreak of chikungunya in the Solomon Islands. Travellers should protect themselves against bug bites.

Dengue fever occurs in this country, and the risk is higher in the daytime, especially around sunrise and sunset. There is a risk of malaria at certain times of the year.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid animals and bats because of the risk of rabies, for which there is a vaccine available.

Medical facilities are limited, and medical evacuation to Australia or New Zealand may be necessary for serious illnesses or injuries. There is a hyperbaric chamber in Honaria. Remember you need travel insurance whenever you leave Canada. Before you leave the country, check with your provincial or territorial health authority for more information.

Dengue fever in Solomon Islands

There have been cases of the mosquito-borne virus dengue fever in Solomon Islands. 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 Solomon Islands

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Solomon Islands 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.

Zika in Solomon Islands

Global Affairs Canada has issued a warning about the risk of contracting Zika in Solomon Islands. Zika is a viral disease spread by mosquitoes, and infection during pregnancy has been linked to birth defects. Women who are pregnant or planning to get pregnant should take advice before travelling to Solomon Islands. Zika symptoms include rash, itch, mild fever, headache, red eyes, muscle and joint pains. Avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellents (50% DEET) and by wearing protective clothing. Mosquito nets and air conditioning should be used when sleeping.

Chikungunya virus in Solomon Islands

Cases of Chikungunya virus have been reported in Solomon Islands. 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.

Rabies in Solomon Islands

There is a risk of rabies in Solomon Islands. Ask your travel health advisor if a pre-exposure rabies vaccine is appropriate for you.