Travel Vaccines and Advice for Saint Lucia
St. Lucia is an Eastern Caribbean island that serves as the perfect tropical getaway. Bathed in sun and lined by beautiful beaches, St. Lucia gives travellers the chance to escape. The bustling cities and luxurious resorts also add an air of leisure to any vacation.
Many travellers choose to visit Castries, the capital of St. Lucia. One of the main attractions of the area is Vigie Beach, with soft sands and tall palm trees. In Castries itself is the bustling Castries Market is a unique shopping experience. Sightseers also like to visit the colorful, art-adorned Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception.
From endless shorelines to lively cities, St. Lucia’s status as a popular tourist destination makes perfect sense. This country is the ideal getaway for anyone looking for a wide array of experiences.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Saint Lucia?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Saint Lucia
Do I Need a Visa for Saint Lucia?
What Is the Climate Like in Saint Lucia?
Is It Safe to Travel to Saint Lucia?
Water Sporting and Safety in Saint Lucia
What Should I Pack for Saint Lucia?
United States Embassy in Saint Lucia
Do I Need Vaccines for Saint Lucia?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Saint Lucia. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Saint Lucia: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, yellow fever, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travellers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Saint Lucia |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travellers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Saint Lucia |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Typhoid – Typhoid fever, caused by Salmonella Typhi, is transmitted through contaminated food and water sources. Vaccination is recommended for travellers and those at higher risk of typhoid exposure. Implementing rigorous hygiene practices and food safety measures is essential for comprehensive protection against infection.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus, typically spread through ingestion of contaminated food or water, or close contact with an infected person. Symptoms include fatigue, stomach pain, and jaundice. The hepatitis A vaccine provides effective prevention against the virus. It is administered in a series of shots, usually starting in childhood, and is recommended for travel to areas with high infection rates.
- Rabies – The rabies virus is a deadly threat that spreads through bites and scratches from infected animals. Preventing rabies involves timely vaccination, avoiding contact with wildlife and seeking immediate medical attention if bitten. The rabies vaccine is instrumental in developing immunity and safeguarding against this fatal disease.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B, a liver infection transmitted through infected fluids, can be prevented through safe practices and the hepatitis B vaccine. The vaccine prompts the immune system to produce antibodies, offering robust and long-lasting protection against the virus.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) are viral infections with distinct symptoms. They spread through respiratory droplets and close contact. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent MMR infections, with the MMR vaccine offering protection against all three diseases.
Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Saint Lucia
Prevent Bug Bites in Saint Lucia
To fend off bug bites, follow PHAC advice: cover up with long clothing, use repellents containing DEET or picaridin, and avoid bug-heavy areas during dawn and dusk. Protect your sleep with insect-repellent-treated bed nets.
Food and Water Safety in Saint Lucia
When travelling, prioritize food safety with PHAC’s advice: consume fully cooked foods, avoid raw seafood, and pick clean eateries. Opt for bottled drinks, exercise caution with ice, and practice responsible alcohol consumption. Prevent travellers’ diarrhea by maintaining good hand hygiene and avoiding street food in unsanitary conditions.
Infections To Be Aware of in Saint Lucia
- African Tick-Bite Fever – African Tick-Bite Fever (ATBF) is a disease transmitted through tick bites in sub-Saharan Africa. Preventive measures include wearing protective clothing, using insect repellent, and performing tick checks. Consult a healthcare professional before travelling to endemic areas.
- Dengue – Aedes mosquitoes spread dengue to millions globally, prevention is the best defense. The disease can strike multiple times due to its four strains, underscoring the need for mosquito bite prevention like netting and repellents.
- Zika – Zika, transmitted by infected mosquitoes and through sexual contact, can lead to birth defects. Preventing Zika involves using insect repellent, safe sexual practices, and eliminating mosquito breeding sites.
Do I Need a Visa for Saint Lucia?
A passport which is valid for at least 3 months from the expected date of departure is required to enter the country. A business visa is not required and a tourist visa is not required for stays up to 42 days. Proof of sufficient funds as well as a return/ onward ticket are also required to enter the country. A departure tax, payable in cash only, must be paid by all passengers over the age of 12.
Saint Lucia Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Saint Lucia? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | |
|
Sources: Embassy of Saint Lucia and Canadian Travel and Tourism
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
What Is the Climate Like in Saint Lucia?
St. Lucia enjoys a tropical climate, adding to the exotic feeling of the island. The temperature and rainfall levels are fairly consistent throughout the island. Popular locations like Castries and Rodney Bay have comfortable temperatures around 25. Averages highs can hit 30 in August and September. Average lows are around 20 throughout January and February.
The island also does experience downpours and thunderstorms year-round. But, while they can be intense, they do not typically last long. The rainiest month throughout most of St. Lucia is December, while the driest is April.
Is It Safe to Travel to Saint Lucia?
When travelling to St. Lucia, a beautiful island nation in the Caribbean, it’s important to take some precautions to stay safe. Here are some tips:
- Be aware of your surroundings and stay alert, especially in unfamiliar or isolated areas.
- Use common sense when making decisions and avoid walking alone at night or displaying valuable items in public.
- Keep your belongings secure and avoid leaving them unattended in public areas.
- Use licensed taxis or reputable transportation companies and avoid unmarked taxis or hitchhiking.
- Be respectful of the local culture and customs, dress appropriately, and avoid behavior that could be seen as disrespectful or offensive.
- Stay informed about any local news and events that could affect your safety, such as protests or demonstrations.
- Make sure you have emergency contact numbers for your hotel, local authorities, and your embassy or consulate in case of an emergency.
By following these tips, travellers can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to St. Lucia.
Water Sporting and Safety in Saint Lucia
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One of the most alluring aspects of St. Lucia is beautiful waters that enclose the island. With water comes plenty of aquatic activities. These include: snorkeling, jet skiing, sailing, diving, swimming, and so much more. Adventurers and water lovers alike will find St. Lucia the perfect destination to try new, exciting things.
But, many of the recreational water activities that you can enjoy in St. Lucia have risk. Do not embark on aquatic adventures that you may not be physically skilled or capable enough to do. If you are reckless, it can lead to injury or even death. Never go out alone, particularly to isolated beaches or far out into the ocean. Do not go into the water above your waist if you have been drinking. Also, remain in shallow waters without high currents or rip tides if you do not know how to swim.
What Should I Pack for Saint Lucia?
In addition to all travel documents and medications recommended by a Passport Health Travel Medicine Specialist, here are some items to consider packing:
- Swimsuit – One of the most attractive aspects of St, Lucia are its beautiful beaches. Many of the hotels and resorts also have swimming pools, and there are local water parks. Make sure you pack a bathing suit so you can take advantage of all the aquatic activities that St. Lucia has to offer.
- Sunscreen – St Lucia is a tropical country that receives a lot of hot, warm sunlight. To protect yourself from sunburn and potential skin damage, always wear a sunscreen. Pack a long lasting sunscreen with no lower than SPF 50 to maximize protection.
- Snorkeling Gear – If you love underwater activities, St. Lucia is the place for you. One of the most popular of these activities is snorkeling. This requires fins, masks and the snorkel itself for breathing.
- Insect Repellent – St. Lucia’s tropical weather gives way to a perfect vacation experience. But, the temperature also gives way for many insects that bite, including mosquitoes. Keep yourself comfortable and avoid any potential disease with bug spray. Bringing a repellent with at least 20%-30% DEET will be most effective in keeping those pesky pests away.
Canadian Embassy in Saint Lucia
Canadian consular services can help travellers with many issues they may face including passport services. There are no consular services in Saint Lucia. For any consular needs, contact the Canadian Embassy of Barbados:
Canadian Embassy Bridgetown
Bishop’s Court Hill,
Saint Michael, P.O. Box 404,
Bridgetown, Barbados BB11113
Phone: +246 629 3550
Visit each embassy’s respective site for more information.
Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start travelling safely today!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Saint Lucia
“Super Helpful and very knowledgeable. Would definitely recommend to anyone whose travelling to Saint Lucia and needs some advice.”
“Our Passport Health service was delivered on-time, by a knowledgeable, friendly efficient person. Could not ask for more.”
“I went in to get a few travel shots to complete the series of immunizations that I’ve had in the past. The staff was knowledgeable and thorough with their medical checks, and very kind. Would recommend this clinic to anyone travelling to the Caribbean!”
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