nhs travel vaccinations jamaica

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Call 110 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance company promptly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccinations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:

• the latest information on vaccination recommendations and health risks in TravelHealthPro’s Jamaica guide
• where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro .

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad .

Healthcare facilities in Jamaica

The standard of medical facilities – both private and government-operated – varies and may not meet UK standards.

Treatment can be expensive with doctors and hospitals expecting immediate cash payment for health services.

FCDO has a list of medical facilities in Jamaica .

There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Jamaica .

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro .

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Information on how to stay safe and healthy abroad. About us.

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Jamaica (Caribbean)

Advice for all destinations.

Read the information on the COVID-19: Health Considerations for Travel page for advice on travelling during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Vaccinations and malaria risk

Review both the Vaccination and Malaria sections on this page to find out if you may need vaccines and/or a malaria risk assessment before you travel to this country.

If you think you require vaccines and/or malaria risk assessment, you should make an appointment with a travel health professional:

• How to make an appointment with a travel health professional

A travel health risk assessment is also advisable for some people, even when vaccines or malaria tablets are not required.

• Do I need a travel health risk assessment?

Risk prevention advice 

Many of the health risks experienced by travellers cannot be prevented by vaccines and other measures need to be taken.

Always make sure you understand the wider risks at your destination and take precautions, including:

• food and water safety
• accident prevention
• avoiding insect bites
• preventing and treating animal bites
• respiratory hygiene
• hand hygiene

Our advice section gives detailed information on minimising specific health risks abroad:

• Travel Health Advice A-Z

Other health considerations

Make sure you have travel insurance before travel to cover healthcare abroad.

Find out if there are any restrictions you need to consider if you are travelling with medicines .

Know how to access healthcare at your destination: see the GOV.UK English speaking doctors and medical facilities: worldwide list

If you feel unwell on your return home from travelling abroad, always seek advice from a healthcare professional and let them know your travel history.

Vaccinations

• Confirm primary courses and boosters are up to date as recommended for life in Britain - including for example, seasonal flu vaccine (if indicated), MMR , vaccines required for occupational risk of exposure, lifestyle risks and underlying medical conditions.
• Courses or boosters usually advised: Tetanus.
• Other vaccines to consider: Diphtheria; Hepatitis A; Hepatitis B.
• Selectively advised vaccines - only for those individuals at highest risk: none.

Yellow fever vaccination certificate required for travellers aged 1 year or over, arriving from countries at risk for yellow fever transmission, and for travellers having transited for more than 12 hours through an airport of countries at risk for yellow fever transmission.

Notes on the diseases mentioned above

• Diphtheria :  spread person to person through respiratory droplets. Risk is higher if mixing with locals in poor, overcrowded living conditions.

Risk is higher where personal hygiene and sanitation is poor.

Risk is higher for long stays, frequent travel and for children (exposed through cuts and scratches), those who may require medical treatment during travel.

• Tetanus :  spread through contamination of cuts, burns and wounds with tetanus spores. Spores are found in soil worldwide. A total of 5 doses of tetanus vaccine are recommended for life in the UK. Boosters are usually recommended in a country or situation where the correct treatment of an injury may not be readily available.
• Malaria not normally present unless the illness was contracted abroad.

Other Health Risks

Dengue fever.

There is a risk of exposure to coronavirus (COVID-19) in this country.

Please be aware that the risk of COVID-19 in this country may change at short notice and also consider your risk of exposure in any transit countries and from travelling itself. 

• The 'News' section on this page will advise if significant case increases or outbreaks have occurred in this country.

Prior to travel, you should:

• Check the latest government guidance on the FCDO Foreign travel advice and country specific pages for travel to this country and the rules for entering the UK on return.
• Ensure you are up to date with UK recommendations on COVID-19 vaccination.
• You can check this in the FAQ's.
• If you are at increased risk of severe COVID-19 you should carefully  consider your travel plans  and consider seeking medical advice prior to making any decisions.

For further information, see  Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)  and  COVID-19: Health Considerations for Travel  pages.

Zika Virus Infection

This country has been categorised as having a risk of Zika (ZIKV) virus transmission.

ZIKV is mainly spread through mosquito bites. The mosquito responsible most commonly bites during daylight hours and is common in towns and cities. 

The illness is usually mild but infection during pregnancy may lead to babies being born with birth defects. There is no vaccine currently available against ZIKV.

Advice for All Travellers

You should practice strict mosquito bite avoidance at all times. Do not travel without adequate travel insurance . Seek pre-travel health advice from a travel health professional 6 to 8 weeks in advance of travel.

Additional recommendations for pregnant travellers or those planning pregnancy

If you are planning pregnancy in the very near future you should consider whether you should avoid travel to this country.

• contact your GP, obstetrician or midwife for further advice, even if you have not been unwell or had any symptoms of ZIKV infection
• use barrier methods of contraception during and after travel and for the duration of your pregnancy, even in you have not been unwell or had any symptoms of ZIKV infection
• If you develop symptoms of ZIKV infection, it is recommended that you avoid becoming pregnant for a further 2 months following your recovery
• 2 months afterwards if you are female
• 3 months afterwards if you are male or if both partners travelled

These measures reduce the chance of sexual transmission of ZIKV and/or the risk of ZIKV infection in pregnancy.

For further information, see Zika virus infection page.

• 21 Feb 2024 - Dengue in the Americas and Caribbean: Update 1
• 68 additional items in the news archive for this country

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• Section 10 - Iguacu Falls
• Section 10 - Mexico

CDC Yellow Book 2024

Author(s): Tanesha Hickman, Emily Kainne Dokubo, Clive Brown

Destination Overview

Infectious disease risks, environmental hazards & risks, safety & security, availability & quality of medical care.

Located 776 km (»480 mi) from the United States, Jamaica is the most populous English-speaking country in the Caribbean. The central two-thirds of the island is mountainous; Blue Mountain Peak, the highest peak on the island, is 2,256 m (7,402 ft) in elevation. The island has several beautiful beaches, with those located on the northern coast known to be some of the best beaches in the Caribbean. Jamaica is also known for Reggae music and its food. There are yearly festivals featuring different cuisines, including the renowned Portland Jerk Festival and various seafood festivals.

Map 10-19: Jamaica

View Larger Figure

In addition to being up to date on routine vaccines, travelers to Jamaica should obtain hepatitis A and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines.

Enteric Infections & Diseases

In most tourist lodging options, tap water is safe for drinking, but bottled water or filtered water is usually readily available. Hotels are usually equipped with water filtration systems.

Travelers' Diarrhea

Visitors to Jamaica will want to experience the local cuisine, ranging from jerked chicken, salt fish, various curried dishes, and much more. Remind travelers to select food and beverages carefully (see Sec. 2, Ch. 8, Food & Water Precautions ). Travelers’ diarrhea (see Sec. 2, Ch. 6, Travelers’ Diarrhea ) is one of the most common travel-related illnesses, and travelers to Jamaica experience attack rates of 8–20%. Jamaica is unique among tourist destinations for having a hotel-based surveillance system that reports illness and injuries among travelers; exit surveys, occasionally conducted at airports among departing travelers, are used to estimate the risk of travelers’ diarrhea. Consuming improperly prepared ackee fruit (the national dish) carries additional health risks (see the section on Poisoning, later in this chapter).

Typhoid Fever

The last confirmed case of typhoid fever in Jamaica was in the early 1990s. The risk of developing typhoid fever is low, and, for most travelers, vaccination against typhoid is not recommended. Vaccination is recommended, however, for those intending to venture outside the usual tourist areas or travel extensively in rural areas of the country (e.g., trekkers and hikers), people traveling for work in remote areas, or travelers visiting the island for extended periods (see Sec. 5, Part 1, Ch. 25, Typhoid & Paratyphoid Fever ).

Respiratory Infections & Diseases

Coronavirus disease 2019.

All travelers going to Jamaica should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines .

Annual influenza activity in Jamaica often starts in October to November, peaks between December to March, and can last as late as May. Advise travelers to receive the influenza vaccine ≥2 weeks before departure.

Tuberculosis

Jamaica has an estimated tuberculosis (TB) incidence of 3.3 per 100,000 population and is classified by the World Health Organization as a low-burden TB country (<10 cases per 100,000 population per year). Short-term travelers are not at high risk of TB unless they are residing or spending extended time in specific crowded environments (e.g., dormitory-style hostels, prisons) or healthcare settings (see Sec. 5, Part 1, Ch. 22,  Tuberculosis ).

Sexually Transmitted Infections & HIV

An estimated 30,000 people in Jamaica are living with HIV. The country has a prevalence of 1.3% in the general population. In 2021, only about half of Jamaicans living with HIV were receiving antiretroviral therapy, of whom around a half had a suppressed viral load. All HIV services are free in Jamaica and high-quality condoms are distributed at local health centers and can also be purchased at many pharmacies and supermarkets (see Sec. 11, Ch. 10, Sexually Transmitted Infections ).

Soil- & Waterborne Infections

Leptospirosis.

In Jamaica, leptospirosis (see (see Sec. 5, Part 1, Ch. 11, Leptospirosis ) is commonly associated with environmental freshwater. In 2007, a major outbreak was reported after flooding rains. Advise travelers to avoid bathing, swimming, or wading in freshwater sources, particularly after heavy rains. If entering a freshwater source cannot be avoided, all open wounds and breaks in the skin should be covered with a waterproof bandage.

Vectorborne Diseases (H2)

Arboviruses: chikungunya, dengue & zika.

Chikungunya (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 3,  Chikungunya ) and Zika (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 27,  Zika ), first reported in Jamaica in 2014 and 2016, respectively, are now endemic to the island. See the most recent Zika travel information for women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant. Over the past 25 years, the frequency and severity of cases of dengue (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 4,  Dengue ) have increased; although cases are reported every year, there have been 7 major dengue outbreaks in the country. Transmission (by the Aedes aegypti mosquito vector) of all three viruses is seasonal, occurring most commonly during the wet season, which coincides with the hurricane season between June and November. Instruct travelers to take measures to protect themselves from mosquito bites (see Sec. 4, Ch. 6, Mosquitoes, Ticks & Other Arthropods ).

There have been no recent reports of autochthonous malaria transmission in Jamaica, although an imported case was reported in 2022. The risk for acquiring malaria among US travelers is estimated to be very low, and there are currently no recommendations for malaria chemoprophylaxis (see Sec. 5, Part 3, Ch. 16,  Malaria ).

The average temperature in Jamaica is 81°F (27.1°C), with temperatures reaching the high 80s to mid-90s from June–November. Temperatures typically cool to the low 70s in January and February. Advise travelers to apply sunscreen when headed outdoors, even in the cooler months, because sunburns can occur during any month of the year (see Sec. 4, Ch. 1,  Sun Exposure ).

Beach & Ocean Risks

Many travelers visit Jamaica to experience its stunning aquatic attractions. A sting from a lionfish spine may result in severe pain, muscle cramps, sweating, and fainting (see Yellow Book chapter, Poisonings). The Jamaican reefs are among the most species-rich in the Caribbean, and some resorts provide diving instruction. In the event of decompression illness (see Sec. 4, Ch. 4,  Scuba Diving: Decompression Illness & Other Dive-Related Injuries ), Jamaica has a decompression facility in Discovery Bay on the north coast near many of the diving areas.

Hiking overnight to catch the sunrise on Blue Mountain Peak is exhilarating and exhausting. The rise to the peak from the coastal plain is one of the steepest gradients in the world. Instruct travelers to use known tour operators or hike with guides familiar with the trail. Jamaica has many endemic flowering plant species, and more than 40% of the flowering plants in the Blue Mountains are found nowhere else in the world. Travelers may also encounter wild and endangered animal species. Although Jamaica is warm, the temperature at the mountain peak can be cold, especially between December and June, with temperatures as low as 40°F (5°C). To avoid the risk of decompression sickness, advise travelers to avoid mountain climbing within 24 hours of diving.

Natural Disasters

Earthquakes.

Located in a geologically active area, Jamaica is subject to occasional earthquakes. The 1692 earthquake remains the largest earthquake and was felt island wide. Between 2020–2022, Jamaica experienced 32 small earthquakes, affecting different parts of the island.

Hurricanes & Tropical Storms

Like other countries in the Caribbean, Jamaica regularly endures cyclones, storms, tropical depressions, and heavy rains. In the past 20 years, 11 major Atlantic hurricanes have threatened the country. In 1988, Hurricane Gilbert was the strongest storm (Category 3) to make landfall in Jamaica. Flooding is common following heavy rains but is limited to low-lying areas. 

Ackee Fruit

Ackee is a red-skinned fruit with gold-colored flesh (see Yellow Book chapter, Poisonings or Revised Named Chapter). Although generally considered safe to eat, counsel travelers against consuming the fruit raw and to try it only when prepared by a reliable source. Ackee fruit must be allowed to ripen fully before being eaten; the ripening process permits clearance of a naturally occurring, heat-stable toxin, hypoglycin A. If the fruit is forced open and consumed before it is ripe, the toxin present in the flesh can precipitate a drop in blood sugar causing abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and, in rare cases, convulsions, coma, and death. Cooking the fruit does not inactivate the toxin.  

Ciguatera & Lionfish Stings

Ciguatera fish poisoning is common in tropical waters; it is due to the consumption of certain species of marine fish, including barracuda, grouper, and lionfish (see Sec. 4, Ch. 10, Food Poisoning from Marine Toxins ). Because ciguatoxin is temperature-stable, cooking or freezing will not remove the toxin. The illness is usually characterized by nausea, vomiting, and neurologic symptoms. Outbreaks are sporadic and underreported. The most recent suspected outbreak in Jamaica due to barracuda consumption was reported in 2020.

The very high crime rate in Jamaica presents safety and security concerns for travelers. In 2020 and 2021, Jamaica had the highest murder rate in both the Caribbean and Latin America, and the second highest rate in 2022. In addition to homicides, other violent crime such as armed robberies, home invasions, and sexual assaults are common. In 2022, the country imposed multiple “States of Emergency” due to the high rates of violent crime. Timely and effective responses from the local police are limited by available personnel, technology, and financial resources. Advise travelers to avoid walking or driving at night, riding in public buses, and being in secluded areas. Counsel travelers to maintain situational awareness, to be vigilant, and to always take security precautions, even within resort facilities (see Sec. 4, Ch. 11, Safety & Security Overseas ). See the latest US Department of State travel advisories . Educate travelers about the US Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), which sends electronic updates to enrolled travelers about safety conditions at their destination.

Traffic-Related Injuries

Driving in Jamaica is on the left side of the road and most vehicles have a steering wheel on the right. Road conditions are poor, speed limits are often not adhered to, and vendors and cyclists share the roadways with motor vehicles. In 2018, the number of road traffic deaths was 13.6 per 100,000 population, compared with 15.6 for the Americas region. Motor vehicle injuries are the most common cause of death for healthy US residents traveling abroad (see Sec. 8, Ch. 5,  Road & Traffic Safety ). Advise travelers to follow road safety precautions when driving or riding in a motor vehicle in Jamaica.

Public health care is available to visitors at a cost, and private insurance is accepted at public sites, including over 400 health centers and hospitals island-wide. Private hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation centers are available to visitors and usually offer broader diagnostic and treatment options, more comfortable settings, and shorter waiting times than public facilities.

Pharmacies carry a wide variety of medications for common chronic, acute, and infectious illnesses, with specialty drugs available from four referral/specialist hospitals: University Hospital of the West Indies, Kingston Public Hospital, Bustamante Hospital for Children, and Cornwall Regional Hospital. Cornwall Regional Hospital is the only specialist hospital located outside of the capital of Kingston, in the parish of St James within the north-coast tourism belt. Drug formulations and brand names may differ from those in North America. For medical emergencies that exceed in-country capacity, medical evacuation may be necessary. Discuss with patients the importance of purchasing travel health insurance and medical evacuation insurance (see Sec. 6, Ch. 1,  Travel Insurance, Travel Health Insurance & Medical Evacuation Insurance ), as well as packing a first aid kit (see Sec. 2, Ch. 10, Travel Health Kits ).

The following authors contributed to the previous version of this chapter: Clive M. Brown

Bibliography

Barracuda fish poisoning suspected in Portland. (2020, December 14).  Radio Jamaica News . Retrieved January 17, 2023, from  http://radiojamaicanewsonline.com/local/barracuda-fish-poisoning-suspected-in-portland

Duncan, J., Gordon-Johnson, K., Tulloch-Reid, M., Cunningham-Myrie, C., Ernst, K., McMorris, N., Grant, A., Graham, M., Chin, D., Webster-Kerr, K. (2017, July 3). Chikungunya: important lessons from the Jamaican experience.  PanAmerican Journal of Public Health .  https://doi.org/10.26633/RPSP.2017.60

Henry, S., & Mendonca, F. (2020, May 1). Past, Present and Future Vulnerability to Dengue in Jamaica: A Spatial Analysis of Monthly Variations.  International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health .  https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17093156

Liu, L. How to Treat a Lionfish Sting.  National Capital Poison Control Center . Retrieved January 19, 2023, from  https://www.poison.org/articles/how-to-treat-a-lionfish-sting-202#:~:text=A%20lionfish%20sting%20involving%20multiple,the%20severity%20of%20the%20sting .

The University of the West Indies. Last Felt Earthquakes in Jamaica.  Earthquake Unit. Retrieved January 19, 2023, from  https://www.mona.uwi.edu/earthquake/earthquakes/last-felt?page=3

UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. (2022, September 20). Jamaica Country Profile. Retrieved January 11, 2023, from  https://reliefweb.int/report/jamaica/jamaica-country-profile-june-2022

World Health Organization. (2023, January 20). Tuberculosis profile: Jamaica. Retrieved January 20, 2023, from https://worldhealthorg.shinyapps.io/tb_profiles/?_inputs_&entity_type=%22country%22&lan=%22EN%22&iso2=%22JM%22

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Available travel vaccines

The following vaccinations are available for people travelling abroad.

Cholera vaccination

Vaccination against  cholera isn't routinely needed for most travellers.

But in some cases it may be recommended for aid workers and people likely to have limited access to medical services – for example, people working in refugee camps or after natural disasters.

Most cases of cholera are confined to regions of the world with poor sanitation and water hygiene, such as parts of:

• South America

The vaccine is usually given as a drink in 2 separate doses, taken 1 to 6 weeks apart.

Children aged 2 to 6 years old should have a third dose taken 1 to 6 weeks after the second dose.

You should make sure you have the final dose of this vaccine at least a week before you travel.

A single booster dose or full revaccination is usually recommended if you have previously been vaccinated against cholera and you're planning to travel to an area where the infection is common.

Diphtheria vaccination

A combined vaccination that protects against diphtheria , polio and tetanus is routinely given to all children in the UK.

You should make sure you and your children are up-to-date with your routine vaccinations before travelling.

Further booster doses are usually only recommended if you're going to visit parts of the world where diphtheria is widespread and your last vaccination dose was more than 10 years ago.

Diphtheria is more common in parts of the world where fewer people are vaccinated, such as:

• Central and Southeast Asia
• Eastern Europe

Additional doses of the vaccination are given in a single 3-in-1 Td/IPV (tetanus, diphtheria and polio) injection.

Hepatitis A vaccination

Vaccination against  hepatitis A is recommended if you're travelling to countries where there are poor levels of sanitation and hygiene, and hepatitis A is common.

Ask your GP, pharmacy or travel clinic if you should have the hepatitis A vaccine if you're travelling to:

• Sub-Saharan and North Africa
• the Middle East
• South and Central America

The vaccination against hepatitis A is usually given as a single initial injection, with a second dose 6 to 12 months later. Two doses should protect you for at least 25 years.

You should preferably have the initial dose at least 2 weeks before you leave, although it can be given up to the day of your departure if needed.

Jabs that offer combined protection against hepatitis A and hepatitis B or typhoid are also available if you're likely to also be at risk of these conditions.

Hepatitis B vaccination

Vaccination against  hepatitis B is recommended if you're travelling in parts of the world where hepatitis B is common, especially if you'll be doing activities that increase your risk of developing the infection.

Hepatitis B is spread through blood and body fluids. Things like having sex, injecting drugs or playing contact sports on your travels can increase your risk.

Anyone travelling for long periods or who's likely to need medical care while abroad is also at increased risk.

Hepatitis B is found worldwide, but it's more common in parts of:

• Sub-Saharan Africa
• Southern and Eastern Europe

The hepatitis B vaccination generally involves a course of 3 injections. Depending on how quickly you need protection, these may be spread over a period as long as 6 months or as short as 3 weeks.

A combined hepatitis A and hepatitis B jab is also available if you're likely to be at risk of both these conditions while travelling.

Japanese encephalitis vaccination

Vaccination against  Japanese encephalitis  is usually recommended if you're planning a long stay (usually at least a month) in a country where you could get the condition.

It's particularly important if:

• you're visiting during the rainy season or there's a year-round risk because of a tropical climate
• you're going to visit rural areas, such as rice fields or marshlands
• you'll be taking part in any activities that may increase your risk of becoming infected, such as cycling or camping

Japanese encephalitis is found throughout Asia and beyond. The area it's found in stretches from the western Pacific islands in the east, across to the borders of Pakistan in the west.

It's found as far north as Northeastern China and as far south as the islands of the Torres Strait and Cape York in Northeastern Australia.

Despite its name, Japanese encephalitis is now relatively rare in Japan because of mass immunisation programmes.

Find out more about risk areas on the Travel Health Pro website

Vaccination against Japanese encephalitis usually consists of 2 injections, with the second dose given 28 days after the first.

Ideally, you need to have the second dose a week before you leave.

Meningococcal meningitis vaccination

Vaccination against some types of meningococcal meningitis  is usually recommended if you're travelling to areas at risk and your planned activities put you at higher risk – for example, if you're a long-term traveller who has close contact with the local population.

High-risk areas for meningococcal meningitis include:

• parts of Africa
• Saudi Arabia during the mass gatherings of Hajj or Umrah

All travellers to Saudi Arabia for the Hajj or Umrah pilgrimages are required to show proof of vaccination.

If travelling to a high-risk area, you should be vaccinated against meningococcal meningitis with a MenACWY vaccine , also known as the quadrivalent meningococcal meningitis vaccine.

This is a single injection that should be given 2 to 3 weeks before you travel. Babies under a year old need 2 injections.

You should have the MenACWY vaccine before travelling to high-risk areas, even if you had the  meningitis C vaccine as a child.

Read more about the  meningococcal meningitis vaccines .

Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccination

The MMR vaccine that protects against measles ,  mumps and  rubella is routinely given to all children in the UK. 

You should make sure you and your children are up-to-date with routine vaccinations, including MMR, before travelling.

If you haven't been fully vaccinated against these conditions or you're not already immune, you should ask about MMR vaccination before you travel.

The MMR vaccine is given as 2 injections. These are usually given when a child is 3 years and 4 months old.

But if vaccination has been missed previously, adults can have the doses 1 month apart, and children can have them 3 months apart if necessary.

Read more about the MMR vaccine .

Polio vaccination

A combined vaccination that protects against diphtheria,  polio and tetanus is routinely given to all children in the UK.

Further booster doses are usually only recommended if you're going to visit parts of the world where polio is, or has recently been, present and your last vaccination dose was more than 10 years ago.

Currently the condition is most common in Pakistan and Afghanistan, but it's also a risk in other regions of the world.

Read more about the  Td/IPV (3-in-1) vaccine .

Rabies vaccination

Vaccination against rabies is advised if you're travelling to an area where you could get rabies, particularly if:

• you're staying for a month or more
• there's unlikely to be quick access to appropriate medical care
• you plan to do activities that could put you at increased risk of exposure to rabies, such as cycling or running

Rabies can be found in many parts of the world. GOV.UK provides a detailed list of countries that have rabies in domestic animals or wildlife .

Vaccination involves a course of 3 injections before you travel, usually given over a period of 28 days.

If you're bitten, licked or scratched by an animal in a country where rabies is a problem, further doses of rabies vaccine (with or without a special anti-rabies injection given around the wound) may be required as emergency treatment.

Find out more about the rabies vaccine

GOV.UK: Rabies risks for travellers

Tetanus vaccination

A combined vaccination that protects against diphtheria, polio and tetanus is routinely given to all children in the UK.

Further booster doses are usually only recommended if:

• you're travelling to areas where access to medical services is likely to be limited and your last vaccination dose was more than 10 years ago
• you've not had two booster doses

Read more about the Td/IPV (3-in-1) vaccine .

Tick-borne encephalitis vaccination

Vaccination against  tick-borne encephalitis (TBE)  is usually recommended for anyone who plans to live or work in a high-risk area, or hike and camp in these areas during late spring or summer.

The ticks that cause TBE are mainly found in forested areas of central, eastern and northern Europe, although at-risk areas also include eastern Russia and some countries in east Asia, including some regions of China and Japan.

The vaccination requires a course of 3 injections for full protection. The second dose is given 1 to 3 months after the first and provides immunity for about a year.

A third dose, given 5 to 12 months after the second, provides immunity for up to 3 years.

The course can sometimes be accelerated if necessary. This involves 2 doses being given 2 weeks apart.

Booster doses of the vaccine are recommended every 3 years, if necessary.

Tuberculosis (TB) vaccination

The BCG vaccine (which stands for Bacillus Calmette-Guérin vaccine) protects against tuberculosis , which is also known as TB.

The BCG vaccine isn't given as part of the routine NHS vaccination schedule. It's given on the NHS only when a child or adult is thought to have an increased risk of coming into contact with TB.

When preparing for travel abroad, the BCG vaccine is recommended for any unvaccinated people under 16 who'll be living or working with friends, family or local people for more than 3 months in a country where TB is common or the risk of multi-drug resistant TB is high.

The BCG vaccine is given as a single injection.

Areas of the world where the risk of TB is high enough to recommend BCG vaccination for previously unvaccinated travellers include:

• parts of South and Southeast Asia

Read more about the BCG vaccine .

Typhoid vaccination

Vaccination against typhoid fever is recommended if you're travelling to parts of the world where the condition is common, particularly if you'll: 

• have frequent or prolonged exposure to conditions where sanitation and food hygiene are likely to be poor
• be staying or working with local people

High-risk areas include:

• parts of South and Central America

Two main vaccines are available for typhoid fever in the UK. One is given as a single injection, and the other is given as 3 capsules to take on alternate days.

It's also possible to have a combined hepatitis A and typhoid jab.

Ideally, the typhoid vaccine should be given at least 1 month before you travel, but it can be given closer to your travel date if necessary.

Booster vaccinations are recommended every 3 years if you continue to be at risk of infection.

Read more about the typhoid vaccine .

Yellow fever vaccination

Vaccination against yellow fever is advised if you're travelling to areas where there's a risk of getting yellow fever.

Some countries require a proof of vaccination certificate before they let you enter the country.

Yellow fever occurs in some areas of tropical Africa and Central and South America. More information about yellow fever and areas where it's found is available on Travel Health Pro .

A single dose of the yellow fever vaccine is thought to provide lifelong protection. For most people, a booster dose is no longer recommended.

You must have a yellow fever vaccination at least 10 days before you travel. You will also need to complete a yellow fever vaccination checklist to make sure you can have the vaccine.

Find out more about the yellow fever vaccination checklist on the Travel Health Pro website

You should be issued with an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis when you have the vaccine. This certificate is valid for life.

Some people cannot have the yellow fever vaccine.

Read more about the  yellow fever vaccine and who can have it .

When to get further advice

Speak to your GP before having any vaccinations if:

• you're planning to get pregnant
• you're pregnant
• you're breastfeeding
• you have an immune deficiency
• you have any allergies

Page last reviewed: 16 March 2023 Next review due: 16 March 2026

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COVID quarantine period reduced for fully vaccinated travellers to Jamaica

Prime Minister Andrew Holness has announced that travellers who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 will now be required to quarantine for eight days down from 14 days. 

Two doses of the AstraZeneca or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine are required for one to be considered fully vaccinated. 

READ: Full List | New curfew hours, COVID containment measures

Persons who have received only a single dose of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine will still be required to undergo the 14-day vaccine. 

Only a single dose of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine is required for one to be considered fully vaccinated. 

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The prime minister said that all travellers will be required to present a negative COVID-19 test result upon arrival at the ports in order to be allowed boarding. 

The test should be no older than three days.

Follow The Gleaner on Twitter and Instagram @JamaicaGleaner and on Facebook @GleanerJamaica. Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169 or email us at  [email protected]  or  [email protected] .

• «Full List | New curfew hours, COVID containment measures
• Bethabara Infant gets water tank, continues preparation for possible reopening »

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Jamaica opens booster programme to all

The Ministry of Health and Wellness has advised that, with immediate effect, Jamaica will provide booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccines to all eligible persons within the population. The move will allow all adults 18 years and older to receive a booster dose following full vaccination.

The decision comes as the Ministry prepares for an anticipated fourth wave of COVID-19 infections and the global spread of the highly transmissible OMICRON variant of concern.

According to Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. Christopher Tufton, “The evidence of the OMICRON variant has shown some reduction in efficacy in some vaccines and it is being recommended in some instances that booster shots can improve the efficacy and, therefore, increase the protection from the virus. Additionally, it has been shown that persons who have had infection can be re-infected as natural immunity does not provide enough protection.”

Booster doses will be administered with the following guidelines:

• Persons who have taken AstraZeneca and are 6 months after their second dose can now receive a booster dose of the Pfizer vaccine.
• Persons who have taken a Pfizer vaccine and are now 6 months after their second dose can now receive a booster dose of the Pfizer vaccine.
• Persons who have taken the single dose of the Johnson and Johnson and are now 2 months after taking that dose can now get a dose of Johnson & Johnson as their booster, or may wait until 6 months after taking the first dose to receive a booster of the Pfizer vaccine.

Children 12 to 17 years are not required to get a booster at this time.

To receive a booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccines, members of the public should visit any of the Ministry’s access points for vaccination. Persons should take their vaccination card and a government-issued identification or letter from a Justice of the Peace.

Members of the public are being urged to remain vigilant in their practice of the infection prevention control measures that is, washing or sanitizing hands, avoiding crowds, wearing a face mask and keeping a physical distance of six feet apart from others.

Travel Vaccinations

If you’re planning to travel outside the UK, you may need to be vaccinated against some of the serious diseases found in other parts of the world.

Vaccinations are available to protect you against infections such as  yellow fever ,  typhoid  and  hepatitis A .

In the UK, the  NHS routine immunisation (vaccination) schedule  protects you against a number of diseases, but does not cover all of the infectious diseases found overseas.

If possible, see the GP or a private travel clinic at least 8 weeks before you’re due to travel.

Some vaccines need to be given well in advance to allow your body to develop immunity.

And some vaccines involve a number of doses spread over several weeks or months.

You may be more at risk of some diseases, for example, if you’re:

• travelling in rural areas
• backpacking
• staying in hostels or camping
• on a long trip rather than a package holiday

If you have a pre-existing health problem, this may make you more at risk of infection or complications from a travel-related illness.

You can find out which vaccinations are necessary or recommended for the areas you’ll be visiting on these websites:

• Travel Health Pro
• NHS Fit for Travel

Some countries require proof of vaccination (for example, for polio or yellow fever vaccination), which must be documented on an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) before you enter or when you leave a country.

Saudi Arabia requires proof of vaccination against certain types of  meningitis  for visitors arriving for the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages.

Even if an ICVP is not required, it’s still a good idea to take a record of the vaccinations you have had with you.

Find out more about the vaccines available for travellers abroad

First, phone or visit the GP practice or practice nurse to find out whether your existing UK vaccinations are up-to-date.

If you have any records of your vaccinations, let the GP know what you have had previously.

You should also ask if the GP practice is signed up to provide free NHS vaccinations for travel, as not all GP practices are.

If the GP practice does not provide NHS vaccinations for travel, you can try a:

• private travel vaccination clinic
• pharmacy offering travel healthcare services

The GP or practice nurse may be able to give you general advice about travel vaccinations and travel health, such as protecting yourself from malaria.

They can give you any missing doses of your UK vaccines if you need them.

Not all travel vaccinations are available free on the NHS, even if they’re recommended for travel to a certain area.

If the GP practice is signed up to provide NHS travel vaccines, these can be provided to you free of charge.

Other non-NHS travel vaccines may be charged for by the GP.

If the GP practice can give you the travel vaccines you need but they are not available on the NHS, ask for:

• written information on what vaccines are needed
• the cost of each dose or course
• any other charges you may have to pay, such as for some certificates of vaccination

The following travel vaccines are available free on the NHS if your GP practice is signed up to provide vaccination (immunisation) services.

• polio (given as a  combined diphtheria/tetanus/polio jab )
• hepatitis A

These vaccines are free because they protect against diseases thought to represent the greatest risk to public health if they were brought into the country.

You’ll have to pay for travel vaccinations against:

• hepatitis B
• Japanese encephalitis
• meningitis vaccines
• tick-borne encephalitis
• tuberculosis (TB)
• yellow fever

Yellow fever vaccines are only available from  designated centres .

The cost of travel vaccines that are not available on the NHS will vary, depending on the vaccine and number of doses you need.

It’s worth considering this when budgeting for your trip.

There are other things to consider when planning your travel vaccinations, including:

• your age and health – you may be more vulnerable to infection than others; some vaccines cannot be given to people with certain medical conditions
• working as an aid worker – you may come into contact with more diseases in a refugee camp or helping after a natural disaster
• working in a medical setting – a doctor, nurse or another healthcare worker may require additional vaccinations
• contact with animals – you may be more at risk of getting diseases spread by animals, such as rabies

If you’re only travelling to countries in northern and central Europe, North America or Australia, you’re unlikely to need any vaccinations.

But it’s important to check that you’re up-to-date with routine vaccinations available on the NHS.

Speak to a GP before having any vaccinations if:

• you’re pregnant
• you think you might be pregnant
• you’re breastfeeding

In many cases, it’s unlikely a vaccine given while you’re pregnant or breastfeeding will cause problems for the baby.

But the GP will be able to give you further advice about this.

For some people travelling overseas, vaccination against certain diseases may not be advised.

This may be the case if:

• you have a condition that affects your body’s immune system, such as  HIV or AIDS
• you’re receiving treatment that affects your immune system, such as  chemotherapy
• you have recently had a bone marrow or organ transplant

A GP can give you further advice about this.

As well as getting any travel vaccinations you need, it’s also a good opportunity to make sure your other UK vaccinations are up-to-date and have booster vaccines if necessary.

People in certain risk groups may be offered extra vaccines.

These include vaccinations against diseases such as:

Read more information on  NHS vaccines  for adults and children to find out whether you should have any.

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Entry requirements differ for travellers depending on your country of citizenship and/or residency.

U.S. Citizens traveling to and from Jamaica must present a valid passport when leaving and or re-entering the United States.  Residents must present their Alien Resident Card (Green Card) together with passport of country for which they hold citizenship.

Canadian Citizens: Valid passport or a government-issued identification with photograph, along with an official birth certificate. Canadian residents must present a Canadian Permanent Resident Card and a passport showing country of citizenship.

All visitors are required to travel with a return ticket or onward ticket for entry into Jamaica.

For more information on the specific documents needed to travel to Jamaica visit the Travel Documents  page on the Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency's website  Visitors traveling via airlines can also go to  www.iatatravelcentre.com  to review travel document requirements.

Unconditional Landing: Unconditional Landing is a facility offered to foreign nationals to stay in Jamaica. The Unconditional Landing is a type of extended stay which allows persons who are Jamaican by birth, by descent, or naturalization to work and attend school in Jamaica. This stay is also offered to CARICOM Nationals. Applications can be submitted to the Passport Immigration and Citizenship Agency with the requisite documentation.

Travel Requiring Visas The Jamaican Embassies, High Commissions and Consulates are happy to assist travelers to Jamaica for business and leisure purposes. You may connect with the nearest office, from the links below, to apply for your travel documents for Jamaica. 

Jamaica Embassies and High Commissions

Consulates and Consulates-General

Online Passenger Declaration (C5) Form

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Travel Vaccinations for Jamaica

Vaccinations, certificate requirements.

Yellow fever vaccination certificate required for travellers aged 1 year or over arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission  and for travellers having transited for more than 12 hours through an airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.

How much will it cost?

Recommended for all travellers.

The vaccines in this section are recommended for all travellers visiting the country.

The tetanus vaccine - or a booster - is recommended for all travellers who are planning to visit a country where access to medical assistance may be limited. You can get tetanus when tetanus bacteria get into your bloodstream, usually due to injury or a wound. You need a booster if your last tetanus jab was over ten years ago.

Hepatitis A is a viral infection which causes an inflammation of the liver. In countries where hep A is prominent, many people catch it as a child. The infection tends to be mild in children but can occasionally cause complications. In adults, however, it can lead to liver damage or even liver failure. Although infection rates appear to be on the decrease, hepatitis A is endemic to Sri Lanka and the vaccination is recommended for all travellers.

Why do I need a consultation?

It is difficult to say which vaccines you need without asking a medical professional. Your itinerary, your medical history and the activities you have planned all affect which vaccinations you need. It is important that a trained travel nurse or pharmacist checks what you need.

Exactly the travel vaccinations you need - no more, no less.

During your consultation, our nurse or pharmacist will talk you through the health risks at your travel destinations to check which vaccines you need. If a vaccine is not essential, we will explain your options so you can decide whether you would like to have it.

Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease transmitted by mosquitoes. You cannot be vaccinated against malaria.

Malaria Precautions

• Malaria not normally present unless the illness was contracted abroad.

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1 book an appointment.

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During your appointment, the nurse or pharmacist will assess which vaccines or medications you need.

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Travel Vaccines and Advice for Jamaica

Jamaica is a popular travel destination due to its lush mountains, rain forests, and sandy beaches. The Caribbean island has dozens of tourist spots and luxury resorts. It is the perfect spot for young-adults and families alike.

Jamaica also has a rich history of British colonization and in music- it is the birthplace of reggae. The Bob Marley Museum is located in their capital of Kingston.

Do I Need Vaccines for Jamaica?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Jamaica. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Jamaica: COVID-19 , hepatitis A , hepatitis B , typhoid , yellow fever , rabies , meningitis , polio , measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) , Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) , chickenpox , shingles , pneumonia and influenza .

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:

• COVID-19 – Airborne – Recommended for all travellers
• Hepatitis A – Food & Water – Recommended for most travellers
• Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Accelerated schedule available
• 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.
• 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.
• Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) – Various Vectors – Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
• TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) – Wounds & Airborne – Only one adult booster of pertussis required.
• 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.
• Pneumonia – Airborne – Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both.
• Influenza – Airborne – Vaccine components change annually.
• Meningitis – Airborne & Direct Contact – Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students.
• Polio – Food & Water – Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended.

See the tables below for more information:

Dengue and Zika are two common mosquito-borne diseases found in Jamaica. Make sure you bring mosquito repellents or netting and avoid being outside at dawn or dusk. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should avoid travel to the region as Zika can cause birth defects.

See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now .

Does Jamaica Have COVID-19 Travel Restrictions?

International travellers may now enter Jamaica. All visitors are subject to medical screening on arrival. Non-residents must have a completed travel authorization upon arrival.

Masks are mandatory in all public places.

Other infections are still present in the region like rabies or travellers’ diarrhea. Make sure you stay protected with a visit to Passport Health. Call or book online now.

Do I Need a Visa or Passport to Enter Jamaica?

A passport which is valid for the duration of your intended stay is required to enter the country. A tourist visa is not required for stays up to 6 months but a business visa is required.

Sources: Embassy of Jamaica and Canadian Travel and Tourism

Passports must be valid at the time of entry and you must have at least one blank page for entry and exit stamps. Some countries are very strict about passport condition. If your passport has been damaged in any way, consider receiving a new one.

Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.

What is the Climate in Jamaica?

Jamaica has a tropical climate which varies in temperature from warm too hot. Central areas with a higher elevation tend to have cooler temperatures. In winter, travellers can expect cooler temperatures in the morning and evening. But, it is still hot.

May through November are wetter months where short showers occur often. June through September is the hurricane. While hurricanes rarely make landfall in Jamaica, it is best to be prepared.

December through April is the best times to visit due to the lack of extreme weather conditions.

How Safe is Jamaica?

Areas such as Kingston and Montego Bay tend to experience high crime rates. Avoid travelling outside of resorts unless it is an official outing or excursion. Exercise caution at all times.

Be careful when travelling at night. Never travel alone and be sure to travel in groups, even during the day.

Before booking, make sure your resort has met the Jamaica Tourist Board’s safety standards.

Petty theft and scams are common, especially in tourist areas. Be aware of your surroundings at all times.

Visit Beautiful Rose Hall

Rose Hall is a beautiful colonial estate. It was restored in the 1960’s and has since been a popular destination for interested tourists.

Take a tour of the estate and its gardens to learn about its rich European history and the legend of the White Witch, Annee Palmer.

Tours usually last around 90 minutes and include a sampling of the houses “Witches Brew.”

What Should I Pack for Jamaica?

Jamaica is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. But, it’s important to make sure you pack some of these items to make sure your trip is a success:

• Insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes which could carry disease.
• A beach bag for carrying sunscreen, towels, and other beach essentials.
• Water shoes for any rocky shores and excursions so your feet don’t become cut.
• Waterproof bags to protect electronics while at the beach.
• Light-colored, thin clothing to protect against the sun and help remain cool.
• Warm clothes for cooler temperatures at night.

Canadian Embassy in Jamaica

Canadian consular services can help travellers with many issues they may face including passport services. Once in Jamaica, the information for the Canadian Embassy is:

High Commission of Canada in Kingston 3 West Kings House Road, Kingston 10, Jamaica Telephone: (876) 926-1500

Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start travelling safely today!

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On This Page: Do I Need Vaccines for Jamaica? Do I Need a Visa or Passport to Enter Jamaica? What is the Climate in Jamaica? How Safe is Jamaica? Visit Beautiful Rose Hall What Should I Pack for Jamaica? Canadian Embassy in Jamaica

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