Risk / Health Info for Turks And Caicos Islands

What vaccines do I need for Turks and Caicos Islands?

The health requirements for Turks and Caicos Islands may seem complex, but our experts can advise you.

Some groups of travellers going to Turks and Caicos Islands should consider a hepatitis B vaccine. These include children, frequent and long-stay travellers as well as those who will be working in a healthcare setting, including dentistry. Hep B is also contracted through recreational intravenous drug use and unprotected sex.

Frequent and long-stay travellers should also ensure their tetanus booster is up to date.

What medical facilities are there in Turks and Caicos Islands?

A range of medical services is available on both Providenciales and Grand Turk. but serious cases are sent to Miami or Nassau. Be sure your travel insurance covers this eventuality.

The emergency number in Turks and Caicos Islands is 911.

Protect your health in Turks and Caicos Islands

It is possible to contract several mosquito-borne illnesses in Turks and Caicos Islands including Chikungunya virus, dengue fever and zika, so it is a very good idea to avoid bites wherever possible, both at night and during the day. Keep covered with loose neutral-coloured clothing. Apply a reliable insect repellent. And sleep in an air-conditioned room, or under nets.

For more mosquito avoidance advice, speak with your travel advisor or check NHS Fit for Travel.

Chikungunya virus in Turks And Caicos Islands

Cases of Chikungunya virus have been reported in Turks And Caicos 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 Turks And Caicos Islands

There have been cases of the mosquito-borne virus dengue fever in Turks And Caicos 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 Turks And Caicos Islands

Global Affairs Canada has issued a warning about the risk of contracting Zika in Turks And Caicos 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 Turks And Caicos 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.