A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers
over 1 year of age coming from countries with infected areas.
B
A small risk of typhoid is present.
Health care
Brilliant medical facilities
are available in Barbados, with both private and general wards.
Barbados has a reciprocal health agreement with the United Kingdom,
which entitles United Kingdom nationals to free hospital and polyclinic
treatment, ambulance travel and prescribed medicines for children
and elderly patients.
However, prescribed medicines for people other than children or
the elderly and all dental treatment must be paid for. To receive
treatment, United Kingdom nationals must show their United
Kingdom passport or NHS medical card,
as well as their temporary entry permit. Medical insurance is advised
for all other nationals.
Food
and Drink
The water in Barbados is considered by some to be the purest
in the world as it is filtered naturally by limestone and coral
and pumped from underground rivers. Dairy products are safe
for consumption and milk is pasteurised. Local meat, seafood, poultry,
fruit and vegetables are generally considered safe to eat.
Other risks
Immunisation against tetanus and hepatitis
A are usually advised; hepatitis B may also be recommended for long
term travellers. A low risk of dengue fever is present. Hay fever
and asthma can be aggravated during the sugar cane harvesting season.
Leptospirosis may occur during the rainy season
(October and November). It is also important to note that there
is a high prevalence of HIV / AIDS, particularly amongst the 20
to 45 age group, of which it is the 2nd biggest killer. All essential
precautions should be undertaken.
