Health & Safety Considerations: Palau

Required and Recommended Vaccinations

Vaccination Status

No specific vaccinations are mandatory for entry into Palau. You do not need proof of vaccination against specific diseases to enter the country.

Travel Health Advice

Consult a healthcare provider 4-6 weeks before travel for personalized advice.
Your doctor can assess your individual risk based on travel plans and medical history.
Ensure your standard immunizations are current (MMR, DTaP, varicella, polio).

Recommended Vaccinations

Certain vaccinations are generally recommended for travelers.

Vaccinations

Hepatitis A and B: Recommended for most travelers due to risks from contaminated food/water or exposure.
Typhoid: Recommended for travelers who eat or drink outside major restaurants/hotels.
Rabies: Consider for long-term travelers or those with high-risk activities (caving, animal contact).

Mosquito-Borne Illnesses

Dengue fever is present. Use Insect repellent (high DEET/Picaridin), wear long sleeves/pants, sleep under nets.

Marine Hazards

Jellyfish stings, reef cuts, venomous fish (stonefish/lionfish), Ciguatera poisoning from certain reef fish. Wear Water shoes, avoid touching seabed.

Sunburn and Heatstroke

High UV index. Use high-SPF, Reef-safe sunscreen, Wide-brimmed hats, UV sunglasses. Stay hydrated.

Common Health Concerns and Prevention

Preventing Dehydration and Diarrhea

Dehydration: High heat and humidity cause dehydration. Drink plenty of bottled or purified water throughout the day.
Traveler's Diarrhea: Practice good hand hygiene, especially before eating.
Drink bottled or purified water.
Be cautious with street food or establishments with poor hygiene.

Food and Water Safety

Drinking Water: Tap water in Koror is generally treated. Bottled water is widely available and recommended for visitors.
Consider bringing a Personal water filter and reusable bottle.
Food Hygiene: Food standards generally maintain good quality in established restaurants.
Choose places with high customer turnover for fresh food.

Local Safety and Disaster Risks

Crime Statistics

Palau has a very low crime rate. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare. Petty crime is uncommon but can occur. Secure valuables.

Natural Disaster Risks

Palau is outside the main typhoon belt, but tropical storms (Aug-Oct) bring heavy rain/wind. Tsunami risk exists (seismic zone), but warning systems are in place.

Travel Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended. Look for medical emergencies (evacuation), trip cancellation, lost luggage, personal liability, and specific dive coverage.

Access to Healthcare and Emergency Services

Healthcare Facilities

The main medical facility in Palau is the Belau National Hospital in Koror. It provides basic medical care and emergency services.

Medical Treatment & Evacuation

For serious conditions, medical evacuation to Guam or Philippines often becomes necessary.
Such evacuations are very costly. Comprehensive travel insurance is highly important.
Hyperbaric chamber facilities are available in Koror for decompression sickness.

Emergency Contact Information

Keep this information readily accessible throughout your trip.

Contacts

Local Emergency: Dial 911 for Police, Fire, and Ambulance.
Belau National Hospital: Located in Koror. Have the address handy.
Your Country's Embassy/Consulate: Keep their contact details.

Insect Repellent Visual

A large bottle of insect repellent, highlighting its use in tropical climates. View Image

Sun Protection Visual

A wide-brimmed sun hat and reef-safe sunscreen on a beach, illustrating sun protection essentials. View Image

Water Filter Visual

A small, portable water filter with a reusable water bottle, showing a sustainable way to get drinking water. View Image

Emergency Procedures

Contact your travel insurance provider immediately if you face a medical emergency or evacuation.
For divers, ensure your policy specifically covers diving-related incidents, including hyperbaric treatment.
Inform your tour operator or hotel staff of any emergency; they possess local knowledge.

Monitor local weather forecasts and advisories closely during your visit, especially during tropical storm season.
Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes and emergency procedures at your accommodation for tsunami risks.
Organizations like DAN (Divers Alert Network) offer specialized insurance for divers.

Stay Safe and Informed

Prioritize your health and safety by staying informed and prepared. Enjoy your Palauan adventure responsibly.

Health & Safety Considerations