Risk / Health Info for Marshall Islands

Canadian Travel Clinics can help you to organize all the shots you need for travel in the Marshall Islands.

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. Medical facilities are only available on Majuro and Ebeye and can provide adequate care for routine medical problems, but evacuation to Hawaii will be needed a major accident or illness.

Travellers should take precautions against bug bites, so wear clothes that cover as much of the body as possible and use a reliable insect repellent. Women who may be pregnant or might be considering getting pregnant should avoid travelling to the Marshall Islands as there is a risk of Zika.

Dengue fever in Marshall Islands

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

Zika in Marshall Islands

Global Affairs Canada has issued a warning about the risk of contracting Zika in Marshall 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 Marshall 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.