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Health & Safety Considerations

Health & Safety Considerations

St Vincent And The Grenadines

Required & Recommended Vaccinations

Vaccinations

Consult a healthcare professional well in advance of your trip to discuss vaccination needs.

Mandatory

  • Yellow Fever vaccination certificate if arriving from or transiting through risk countries.
  • Check latest international travel health advisories.
  • Confirm applicability to your itinerary.

Additional Protections

Suggestions

  • Routine Vaccinations (MMR, Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis, Polio, Flu shot).
  • Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid (if eating outside major restaurants).
  • Rabies (if potential animal exposure).

Mosquito-Borne Diseases

Dengue fever and Zika virus are present. Use Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin. Wear long sleeves/pants at dawn/dusk. Sleep under mosquito nets.

Sun & Heat

The Caribbean sun is intense. Use high-SPF Reef-safe sunscreen. Wear Wide-brimmed hats and UV-protection sunglasses. Stay hydrated.

Traveler's Diarrhea

Practice good food and water hygiene. Wash hands frequently with soap or Hand sanitizer. Choose thoroughly cooked food. Peel fruits and vegetables.

Access to Healthcare & Emergency Services

Healthcare Facilities

  • Bequia has a small hospital (Port Elizabeth Hospital) for basic care.
  • For serious medical needs, evacuation to St. Vincent or abroad.
  • Emergency Services: Dial 999 for police, fire, or ambulance.
  • Severe storms can cause temporary disruptions to services.

Water & Food Safety

  • Tap water generally safe in tourist areas, but bottled water widely available.
  • Consider a Portable water filter bottle for extra peace of mind.
  • Food hygiene standards generally good in established restaurants.
  • Exercise caution with street food; choose hot, thoroughly cooked items.

Crime Statistics & Safety Concerns

Low Crime Rate

Bequia has a very low crime rate, known for its peaceful and friendly atmosphere.

Petty Crime

Rare but can occur in crowded areas (ferry terminal, market). Keep valuables secure.

Safety Recommendations

Avoid walking alone in isolated areas at night. Use hotel safes. Do not leave belongings unattended.

Natural Disaster Risks

Hurricane Season

Bequia is susceptible to hurricanes and tropical storms during June-November.

Preparedness

  • Heed local advisories and evacuation orders.
  • Stay informed through local news or weather apps.
  • Infrastructure generally resilient, but temporary disruptions are possible.

Seismic Activity

St. Vincent home to La Soufrière volcano. Earthquakes possible, though severe ones rare.

Island Protocols

  • Island has protocols in place for seismic events.
  • Tsunami risk is very low but possible after large earthquakes.
  • Local authorities issue alerts and guidance.

Medical Emergencies

Crucially, this includes medical evacuation, which can be very expensive without coverage.

Trip Cancellation

Covers non-refundable costs if your trip is canceled or cut short due to unforeseen circumstances, including severe weather.

Lost Luggage

Compensation for lost, delayed, or damaged baggage.

Travel Insurance

Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive travel insurance is a good choice for any trip to Bequia.

Coverage Areas

  • Medical emergencies, including medical evacuation (very costly without).
  • Trip cancellation/interruption for unforeseen circumstances (e.g., severe weather).
  • Lost, delayed, or damaged luggage compensation.

Choosing Your Policy

Read the policy details carefully to understand coverage and exclusions.

Provider Options

Emergency Contact Information

Local Emergency Contacts

Police, Fire, Ambulance: 999. Know your hotel/guesthouse phone number and address. Keep personal emergency contacts nearby.

International Support

Most countries do not have an embassy or consulate directly in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. They are usually based in Bridgetown, Barbados, or Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago.

Contact Cards

Consider carrying a small Emergency contact card with your personal contacts and any medical information.

Safety First Reminder

Always be aware of your surroundings and secure your valuables. Your safety is a personal priority.