Risk / Health Info for Cayman Islands

What shots do I need for the Cayman Islands?

Make sure your shots are up to date before you go to the Cayman Islands. In addition, you should consider getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and typhoid, which is transmitted by contaminated food or water, and hepatitis B, which is transmitted via blood and other body fluids.

If you’re going to the Cayman Islands to work in healthcare or dentistry, or you’re planning to visit frequently or stay for a long time, it is recommended you get a hep B shot. It is also recommended for children as they can contract it from cuts and grazes. Hep B is also spread through shared or dirty needles, including tattooing or piercing, and through unprotected sex. Another infection route is invasive medical or cosmetic procedures.

What are the healthcare facilities like in Cayman Islands?

The Cayman Islands have good medical facilities, but some emergencies might require evacuation to the United States. Make sure you have travel insurance arranged before you leave Canada, so check with your provincial or territorial health authority.

The emergency number in the Cayman Islands is 911.

Protect your health in the Cayman Islands

Dengue fever and chikungunya are spread by mosquitoes, so avoid bites as best you can when you’re in the Cayman Islands. Always use a reliable insect repellent, sleep in air-conditioned accommodations or under bed nets, and wear loose clothing that covers your body thoroughly.

Chikungunya virus in Cayman Islands

Cases of Chikungunya virus have been reported in Cayman 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.

Dengue fever in Cayman Islands

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

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